JUNE 28, 2025: HANGING ON

Here’s an amusing story that I recently heard.  A man was working atop a three story building on a metal roof.  He was surprised by a gust of wind and found himself sliding downward toward the edge.  He reached and grabbed for anything he could and at the very last second caught the eaves trough, (rain gutter).  That’s the good news.  The bad news was that he was hanging three stories up and couldn’t get back on the roof.  Now what? He called down below, “Can anyone help me!?”  There was no one around.  After several attempts while losing strength and then, out of desperation he called upward, “Can anyone up there help me!?”  He then heard a booming voice from above say, “Trust in me and let go.”  After several seconds of consideration, he then looked up and asked, “Can anyone else up there help me!?”

At first this seemed like just an amusing story to me, until I realized that there might be things in my life that I was still, “holding on to.”  I had to do a little self-examination.  How about you?  Do you feel like the hanging man?  Is it difficult to let go and trust God with…your life, family, finances, future, everything?  Perhaps you are like many who trust God with some things, (maybe smaller, less important issues) but choose to keep control of, (or not give up) others.  Possibly like the skeptical man holding on to the eaves trough, you only call on and trust God as a last resort.  Is it like, “I know you are there and I’ll call you when I need you.”  How do you think God views that?

A man asked Jesus what was the most important thing in this world, Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matt. 22:37).  Again in John 14:1, "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.”(NLT).  God does not lie.  If He says you can trust in Him, you CAN trust in Him.  He also says He should be number one in your heart, soul and mind, (everything in your life).  This does not leave much, “wiggle room” in what we think we should keep control of. 

The good news is that He is much more capable of handling all aspects of our lives than we are.  Are you willing to bet that you can manage ANYTHING in your life better than God?  So why do we still choose to hang on to things?  Are you still trying to do it on your own?  Let go and let God.  See what happens.  Something to think about…

Here are some things to ponder:  A farmer in the field with his cows counted 196 of them, but when he rounded them up he had 200.  Did you hear about the new corduroy pillows? They’re making headlines everywhere!   My friend recently got crushed by a pile of books, but he’s only got his shelf to blame.  Pampered cows produce spoiled milk.  Dry erase boards are remarkable and finally… Atheism is a non-prophet organization.

Jesus said, “For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” Impact Church and God say, “Come as you are.” We are at 141 E. Main St.  Canton. (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.).  Services are Sun. at 10:30 am.  Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!  

SATURDAY, JUNE 21: LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE

Sometimes I take life too seriously.  How about you?  I let stresses build so that little things become much more than they are.  At these times I might question God and even get angry with Him.  Often life’s not fair for all of us, but that doesn’t mean that God’s not there or that He doesn’t care.  Deep down I know that it’s true and usually it’s when I realize this that I come to the conclusion that letting life and stress get the better of me is silly and fruitless.  Sometimes it’s good to just laugh at ourselves.  If we can’t find humor in life, we are in trouble.  In fact it’s important for our healing and God says so in Proverbs 17:22: A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.  So let’s laugh a bit.

A cowboy rode into town and stopped at the saloon for a drink. Unfortunately, the locals always had a habit of picking on newcomers. When he finished, he found his horse had been stolen.  He comes back into the bar, handily flips his gun into the air, catches it above his head without even looking and fires a shot into the ceiling. “Who stole my horse?” he yelled with surprising forcefulness.  No one answered.  “I’m gonna have another beer and if my horse ain’t back outside by the time I’m finished, I’m gonna do what I dun back in Texas and I don’t want to have to do what I dun back in Texas!”  Some of the locals shifted restlessly.  He had another beer, walked outside, and his horse was back! He saddled up and started to ride out of town.  The bartender wandered out of the bar and asked, “Say partner, what happened in Texas?”  The cowboy turned back and said, “I had to walk home!”

A Texas State trooper pulled a car over on I-35 about 2 miles south of Waco. When the trooper asked the man why he was speeding, the driver said he was a Magician and Juggler and was on his way to Austin to do a show for the Shrine Circus and he was late. The trooper told the driver he was fascinated by juggling and said if the driver would do a little juggling for him then he wouldn't give him a ticket. He told the trooper he had sent his equipment ahead and didn't have anything to juggle. The trooper went to his trunk and got out 5 flares, lit them and handed them to him. While the man was juggling, a drunken good old boy from central Texas pulled over, got out and watched the performance, He then went over to the Trooper's car, opened the rear door and got in. The trooper observed him and went over to the State car, opened the door asking the drunk what he thought he was doing.  The drunk replied, “You might as well take me to jail, cause there ain't no way I can pass that test.”

A large group of Isis fighters in Iraq are moving down a road when they hear a voice call from behind a sand dune: "One Marine is better than ten Isis fighters". The Isis commander quickly orders 10 of his best men over the dune where a gun-battle breaks out and continues for a few minutes, then silence. The voice once again calls out: "One Marine is better than five hundred Isis losers! Furious, the Isis commander sends his next best 500 troops over the dune. Rifle fire, machine guns, grenades, rockets and cannon fire ring out as a terrible battle is fought .... Then silence. Eventually one badly wounded Isis fighter crawls back over the dune and with his dying words tells his commander, "Don't send any more men... it's a trap. There's two of them!”

Hope this helps.  God brings joy; come and meet Him. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton.  Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life   Until next time, look up and smile! 

JUNE 14, 2025: BUCKET LIST

Do you have a bucket list? Perhaps you are even working yours out. What is it that you absolutely want to do or see before you are gone? Is it Alaska, Europe, the moon? Perhaps it’s sky diving, meeting someone special, owning a corvette or… In our culture, these things, (including the moon) seem reasonably obtainable if we would want to pursue them. Things like food, water, electricity, clothing and shelter are not major concerns for most of us. Just think about how really fortunate we are! Yet we, (I) still complain. Why is that?

I guess that the problem is in being comfortable.  We get accustomed to a certain standard of living, (which for most of us is very good!) and then anything less becomes a reason to be dissatisfied.  Ouch.  One of the many reasons that I have traveled to third world nations in the past is that the experience becomes a, “Reality Check” as to how good I really have it.  Suddenly my, 1^st world problems are put into proper perspective, at least for a while…  Perhaps we have more to be thankful for than we thought?     

Did you know that almost half the world, over three billion people, live on less than $2.50 a day and at least 80% of humanity lives on less than $10 a day?   2.3 billion people in the world, one in three, do not have a decent toilet.  If you woke up in a bed, with heat, electricity, food in your house and change in your pocket, you are doing far better than the vast majority of the world.  Isn’t life good?  Do you have more to be thankful for now than a few minutes ago?  Are there more important things?

Most of us value people and relationships even more than comfort and possessions.  Who are you thankful for?  If there was room for all of the good things in your life on the front of a, “Life is Good” tee shirt, what would be on it?  Life IS good, isn’t it?  The good life gets even better when you know The One who truly provides it.  God has provided everything, including His Son so that you may know Him and the, “Out of this World” joy. He brings.  Do you know Him?  Have you thanked Him?   Something to think about…

Sister Mary Ann, who worked for a home health agency, was out making her rounds visiting homebound patients when she ran out of gas. Fortunately, an Exxon station was just a block away. She walked to the station to borrow a gas can and buy some gas. The attendant told her that the only gas can he owned had been loaned out, but she could wait until it was returned. Since Sister Mary Ann was on the way to see a patient, she decided not to wait, and walked back to her car.  She looked for something in her car that she could fill with gas, and spotted the bedpan she was taking to the patient. Always resourceful, Sister Mary Ann carried the bedpan to the station, filled it with gasoline, and carried the full bedpan back to her car.  As she was pouring the gas into her tank, two Baptist ladies watched from across the street. One of them turned to the other and said, “If it starts, I’m turning Catholic.”

Are you skeptical of God?  His people?  Come and let Him prove Himself.  Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt).  Services are Sun. at 10:30 am.  Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life  Until next time, look up and smile!

JUNE 7, 2025: OBITUARY REFLECTIONS

Some time back I saw an obituary that troubled me more than I expected. It was a girl that I knew and dated back in high school. It did not go very far and it occurred quite a long time ago, so why did it cause me such pause? I know that seeing someone that you know and of the same age go gets your attention more than others and the fact that they showed a high school age picture in the obit didn’t help any. It took me a few days to identify what troubled me more than just a memory of a good time in my life and the reality check of my own mortality. It was some something much more personal.

Thinking back, I remembered a comment that she had made after we had known each other for a while. She had admitted to me that in the beginning her intentions were for it to be a short term, “let’s have some fun and move on” relationship. But then after spending some time together she said, “But then I got to know you.” That’s why the obit troubled me so much; she liked me for who I was. The difference between someone you, “know” and someone who cares for you personally makes quite a difference, doesn’t it? Do you see God as someone who says, “But then I got to know you?”

God cares about you for who you are! In fact He fashioned YOU unique and special and knew everything about YOU long before you were created, (Psalm 139). This was not accidental nor was it intended to be a short term relationship. His concern for you, right now, is greater than the closest person in your life. It says so in His words to us and if you have been changed by His presence in your life, then I bet you understand. If you haven’t then…the best is yet to come!

Think about it, you have NOTHING to lose and once you experience God’s love in your life, it changes for the BEST. “We love because he first loved us.” (1John 4:19). God already knows you and loves you and is right there waiting. In fact if you check His obit, you will see that He died BECAUSE He loves you. Something to think about…

The child was a typical four-year-old girl, cute, inquisitive, and bright as a new penny. When she expressed difficulty in grasping the concept of marriage, her father decided to pull out his wedding photo album, thinking visual images would help. One page after another, he pointed out the bride arriving at the church, the entrance, the wedding ceremony, the recessional, the reception, etc. “Now do you understand?” he asked. “I think so,” she said. “That was when mommy came to work for us!”

A big-game hunter went on safari with his wife and mother-in-law. One evening, while still deep in the jungle, the Mrs. awoke to find her mother gone. Rushing to her husband, she insisted on them both trying to find her mother. The hunter picked up his rifle and started to look for her. In a clearing not far from the camp, they came upon a chilling sight: the mother-in-law was backed up against a thick, impenetrable bush, and a large male lion stood facing her. The wife cried, “What are we going to do?” “Nothing,” said the hunter husband. “The lion got himself into this mess; let him get himself out of it!”

God came to rescue YOU. Want to meet Him? Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

MAY 30, 2025: HEART APP

What feeling do you get when you think that you have lost or forgotten your cell phone?  Panic?  Is it, “Drop everything” until you locate it?  I must admit that I too have developed somewhat of an attachment to mine.  What was originally designed as a means for people to communicate has turned into so much more.  What do you use yours for?  Communication, information, banking, entertainment, a camera, or…?  There is an app for almost anything.  How many do you have?    I’m not sure, but I think there is now one that will change your socks for you!  Smart phones are valuable tools, but there are some things they can’t do.

They can’t give a hug, they can’t bake a pie and they cannot replace loved ones around a fireplace.  A video of a walk through the woods cannot replace the smells and sounds and atmosphere of being there yourself and you cannot call and talk to God on a cell phone.  I don’t know about you, but there is not an electronic device ever made that I would trade for the personal experiences that I have had with my family and loved ones.  Not even close.  There is no app that can replace intimacy and there is no God replacement app, unless you use His heart app.

Personal, direct communication with God has been available for over 2000 years.  There is always FULL SIGNAL STRENGTH and Jesus will NEVER let you go to voicemail.  He is, “Standing by” waiting to give you forgiveness and bring positive life change, but as the commercials say, “You need to call now.”  ” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him.  For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”  Romans 10:12-13.

Have you downloaded the heart app?  Have you been having personal encounters with God, or just letting Jesus go to voicemail?  Is misplacing Jesus in your life more important than losing your cell phone?  Something to think about…

A Baptist preacher and his wife decided to get a new dog. They visited kennels and explained their needs. Finally, they found a kennel whose owner assured them he had just the dog they wanted.  He brought the dog to meet the pastor and his wife.  "Fetch the Bible," he commanded. The dog bounded to the bookshelf, located the Bible, and brought it to the owner. “Find Psalm 23," he commanded. The dog placed the Bible on the floor and showing marvelous dexterity with his paws, found the correct passage, and pointed to it with his paw. The pastor and his wife immediately purchased the dog.  That evening, a group of church members came to visit. The pastor and his wife began to show off the dog, having him locate several Bible verses. One man asked, "Can he do regular tricks, too?"  "I haven't tried”, the pastor replied. He pointed at the dog. "HEEL!" the pastor commanded.  The dog immediately jumped on a chair, placed one paw on the pastor's forehead and began to howl.  The pastor looked at his wife in shock and said, "Good Lord! He's Pentecostal!"

Jesus is real, and He does heal.  Don’t put church and God off another week.  Come and experience something good this Sunday. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton.  Services start at 10:30 am.  Check out, “Church done different.”  Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life  Until next time, look up and smile!

May 24, 2025: ON THE WAY DOWN

The story is told about a king in Africa, who had a close friend that had a habit of looking at every situation, (positive or negative) and remarking, “This is good!” One day they were out on a hunting expedition. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for when the king fired it, his thumb was blown off. The friend remarked as usual, “This is good!” To which the king replied, “No, this is NOT good!” and proceeded to send his friend to prison. About a year later, the king was hunting in an unusual area, and cannibals captured him and took them to their village. Then they noticed that the king was missing a thumb, and being superstitious, they never ate anyone who was less than whole. So they sent him on his way. As the king returned home, he was reminded of his old friend and felt remorse for his treatment. He went immediately to the prison. “You were right,” he said, “it was good that my thumb was blown off.” And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. “And so I am very sorry for sending you to prison for so long.” “No,” his friend replied, “this is good!” “What do you mean, “this is good!” How could it be good?” “If I had not been in jail, I would have been with you!”

There was a man that was greatly confident that gravity did not exist. So much so that he was willing to jump off the 110 story Willis tower in Chicago. On the big day, one of his friends decided that he would lean out a window about halfway down to observe and encourage his, “traveling companion.” OK, ready…set…Jump! As the confident jumper passes his buddy halfway down, the friend shouts, “How’s it going?” He then hears the rapidly fading reply, “So far so good!”

Perhaps, like the jumper, you feel that life for you is, “So far so good” because things are going well and you consider yourself a good person. After all, if it is not broken, don’t fix it. Right? The Bible, (The book with thousands of years of staying power) says that Jesus is the ONLY way to Heaven when we die. This may sound narrow to you, but we can’t change the reality of gravity, nor can we alter who God really is. Do you think that it is prudent or logical to believe that if there is a God, that he is who we want him to be or how we think that he should be? As if we can create him rather than him creating us? Please think about that.

Maybe you have heard the expression. “It’s not the fall that scares me; it’s hitting the ground that is the problem.” The man jumped off the building thinking that everything was alright, right until the end. We all have an end. “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment…” (Heb.9:27). Please consider carefully when I ask you, “How is it going?” Because, “so far so good” may not be good enough. Something to think about…

Strange things are happening in our world. Isn’t it time to get connected to the one in control of it all? He wants you to. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.). Things start happening each Sunday at 10:30. It’s friendly and free. Until next time, look up and smile!

MAY 17, 2025: STANDBY

Have you ever been on, “Standby” at the airport? As I understand it, today it is common for airlines to, “overbook” flights in order to help insure a fully loaded plane. I have seen where when an excess of prepaid passengers show up for a flight, rewards or incentives are offered to persuade a certain number of them to fly later on. Back in the day, this did not happen. “Standby” passengers usually took a chance, arriving without a ticket, hoping that enough of the pre-scheduled passengers didn’t show up so that they might take their place. Being on standby can be intense. You could/can be on a list of people hovering around the ticket agent kiosk waiting while the plane loads. Finally, just prior to the plane’s departure, someone over the loudspeaker will announce, “Will standby passengers, blank, blank and blank please report to the ticket kiosk.” Most standby passengers are fairly desperate of they wouldn’t be there, so their level of attentiveness to the announcements is far greater than the average passenger. They are really listening! Now…

Perhaps you are, “pre-ticketed” to Heaven.  If not, you need to get online with Jesus, and soon.  If you already have, how interested are you in His announcements before your flight?  Are you just starring at your ticket waiting?  Listening to some of the messages and deciding whether or not to respond?  (Ouch!).   Or are you intently waiting and listening like someone on, “Standby?”  It is so easy to get caught up in our situations in life, I.E., the daily stuff, to the point of forgetting what is most important.  That is, knowing God (Jesus) and being attentive and obedient to what He wants us to do, both in general and more specific ways.  Too often I find myself just sitting in life’s pre-boarding area, looking at the time and waiting for the announcement for my section to board.  What I need to be doing is standing close to Jesus with the attentiveness and anticipation of someone on standby!   I need to be like Isaiah in chapter 6, verse 8, “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!”  Something to think about…

Fred came home from university in tears. “Mum, am I adopted?”  “No of course not”, replied his mother. Why would you think such a thing?  Fred showed her his genealogy DNA test results. No match for any of his relatives, and strong matches for a family who lived the other side of the city.  Perturbed, his mother called her husband. “Honey, Fred has done a DNA test, and… and… I don’t know how to say this… he may not be our son.”  “Well, obviously!” he replied.  “What do you mean?”  “It was your idea in the first place” her husband continued. “You remember, that first night in hospital when the baby did nothing but scream and cry and scream and cry. You asked me to change him.”  “Well I picked a good one I reckon. Ever so proud of Fred.” Hmmm…  Here’s the good news, no matter what your origin. “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12).

Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton.  Each Sunday, adult lessons start at 9:00 am followed by the worship service at 10:30. It’s friendly and free.  Until next time, look up and smile!   

MAY 3, 2025: WHAT IS IMPORTANT

When it comes right down to it, (with the possible exception of your own life), what is most important to you? Or to put it another way, what would hurt you the most if you lost it? Money? Your car, your health, home or phone? How about the loss of a coworker, friend or family member? Ask someone who has lost someone very close what they would give to have them back, and I’ll bet you will get your answer as to the value of possessions verses the value of love and relationships. Now I am sure that we would agree that homes, money, cars (and even phones) are necessary in this life, but would you also agree that in the end, these things are there to facilitate relationships? A means to an end, so to speak? After all, having a mansion, wealth and a phone on a deserted island wouldn’t mean much would it? (By the way, if someone wanted to help me with the mansion and wealth thing here then,,,).

Being born again by and with The Spirit of God (John Chap. 3), means beginning a visceral relationship with the creator of the universe. Let me say that again, a close cohabitating connection with God! This is such an internal indwelling friendship (actually adoption) that it changes you. Stop! Don’t run away, you will still be, “who you are” in the sense of intelligence, personality, talents etc. It will however change how you feel loved, forgiven and your understanding of your place in this world. Love, purpose and,,,Heaven. “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus, John 3:5. So, let’s recap.

Possessions, health, food and a place to live are important, but…not as important as our earthly relationships, but…these are not as important as the necessary relationship with Jesus. So, if this is THE most important thing, how are you doing with that? Have you made Jesus a means to YOUR end? Something to think about…

Jack’s mother ran into the bedroom when she heard him scream and found his two-year old sister pulling his hair. She gently released the little girl’s grip and said comfortingly to Jack, “There, there. She didn’t mean it. She doesn’t know that hurts.” She was barely out of the room when the little girl screamed. Rushing back in, she asked, “What happened?” “She knows now,” Jack replied.

A woman is standing looking in the bedroom mirror… She is not happy with what she sees and says to her husband, “I feel horrible; I look old, fat and unattractive… I really need you to pay me a compliment.” The husband replies, “Your eyesight’s perfect.” His wasn’t after the ensuing left hook!

Want to find God? Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life. Until next time, look up and smile!

APRIL 26, 2025: SOCIAL SECURITY

Life is like a roll of toilet paper, the more you use it, the faster it goes! Do you agree? It seems like not long ago, I was going to my friend’s house to play and watching Walt Disney on television. Now I am looking at retirement numbers. What does retirement look like for you? Do you have a pension, 401K, or money buried in the back yard? According to a Time Magazine report from a few years ago, 1 out of 3 Americans have saved nothing for retirement and 75% of people over 40 are woefully behind in retirement savings. Other reports showed the situation as even worse. That leaves many of us counting on Social Security to sustain us, and even that system has been eroding. At least it is SOMETHING we can count on…right? Right?

The truth is, the stock market, a company pension and even Social Security are out of our hands. We hope, plan and count on them to be there when our time comes, and they probably will be, but they are not an absolute certainty. We have to have faith in the people responsible to take care of the future. Some of those responsible have put our nation in about 36 trillion dollars of debt. How’s that working out for us? I don’t say this as a means of worrying anyone; in fact I know plenty of people who are in absolute peace about their future and I am one of them. Absolute peace.

God is responsible for all things, including my financial future. Those who know and believe in Him have committed not just their retirement to Him, but everything. Does this mean financial security, health and trouble free living? No. Does it mean that I can be irresponsible and do nothing to live today or in the future? Certainly not. God expects us to use what He has given us to care for ourselves and for others as well. Simply put, we do what we can, and God does what we can’t. We can save for retirement, eat right and exercise, increasing our chances for a better and healthier future, but we can’t say for sure it will be. So where does this absolute peace come from?

It is because if I lose my job, God is there. If my retirement savings disappear, God is there. If my health fails, that’s right, God is there. Psalm 37:5 says, “I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread.” I don’t know for sure what the future holds, but I DO know who holds my future, both here and forever and that’s more than good enough for me! How about you? Where is YOUR future invested? Something to think about…

Speaking of getting old… One day a little girl was sitting and watching her mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly noticed that her mother has several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast on her brunette head. She looked at her mother and inquisitively asked, "Why are some of your hairs white, Mom?" Her mother replied, "Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white." The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then said, "Momma, how come ALL of grandma's hairs are white?

A Kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they drew. She would occasionally walk around to see each child's work. As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was? The girl replied, "I'm drawing God." The teacher paused and said, "But no one knows what God looks like." Without missing a beat, or looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, "They will in a minute."

One day we will all see Jesus face to face. Will He know you? Don’t put church and God off another week. Come and experience something good this Sunday. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.). Services start at 10:30 am. Check out, “Church done different.” Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

APRIL 19, 2025: CAUGHT IN THE SAME TRAPS

Have you ever tried to trap a rat? If you don’t get him the first time, then good luck! They are very wary and are not easily fooled, especially after experiencing something once. The opposite is true with some other animals. I have fished certain ponds where you can catch the same fish about every time you go there. You know where he lives, what lure to use and how to use it. For some reason, (hunger, poor memory, foolishness), without stopping to think they fall for the same old trap. Every time!

I might laugh at that foolish fish, or admire that crafty rat, but do I regularly stop and wonder where I fit between the wise and the foolish in my life? What traps do I often fall into? Do I go for the same lure over and over? Getting reeled in and taken places I don’t want to go? Do you get caught in the trap of, anger, gossip, lust, criticism, dishonesty, drugs, alcohol…? These things can seem right at the time but often leave us with a bad taste in our mouth and result in negative consequences and dissatisfaction. Have I learned to recognize a, “fake” when it is presented to me? Am I even aware? Do I care?

This needs to be seen as a spiritual battle. There is evil in our world, (perhaps you’ve noticed) and it is derived from Satan. God refers to him as the, “tempter” or the “deceiver.” Seems to fit him perfectly, don’t you think? He also has helpers, known as demons, (these are fallen angels with power to influence us!). They are vigilant and always ready to encourage us to fail. In fact, it’s their job. Proverbs 14:12 states wisely, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.” Satan knows where you live, what lures that you like and how to use them. It is up to us to evaluate, recognize these fakes, and like the wise rat not just to react but respond. Something to think about…

Here is something, (attributed to Larry the Cable Guy) from a recent email. “They keep talking about drafting a constitution for Iraq. Why don’t we just give them ours? It was written by a lot of really smart guys, it has worked for over two hundred years, and we’re not using it anymore. The real reason that we can’t have the Ten Commandments in a courthouse is this: You cannot post, “Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not commit adultery”, and “Thou shalt not lie” in a building full of lawyers, judges and politicians. It creates a hostile work environment.”

Want an environment filled with God’s love? Impact Church is at 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.) Call 570-673-5912 and hear messages and more at www.impactministries.life Services are Sundays at 10:30 am and there is something for EVERYONE. Check us out! Until next time, look up and smile!

APRIL  12, 2025: WEAK ANIMAL

I am sure you have seen the nature documentaries that show how the lion herd (or other predators) attempt and often succeed in taking down and killing some prey animal. The commentator usually explains how the predator looks for the young, sick or very old animal that is falling behind or is somewhat isolated from the herd. That is because, A. they are weak and more susceptible to attack and, B. not surrounded by the security of the herd. Only the foolish lion tries for a healthy animal inside the herd. If I am a wildebeest, I want to be the healthy adult on the inside! How about you?

Does it make sense that those in our world that are spiritually weak and isolated are more likely targets for spiritual predators? Here is what God, (The Bible) says about it. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8). That means that we need to be healthy and protected. Being part of a church family is one element of it, and regular nourishment from God is another part of good spiritual health. Regular nourishment cannot be just, “church on Sunday.” Try eating one meal a week and see how that works out. When God provided manna for Moses and the Israelites in the desert, they had to gather fresh supplies every day. If kept for more than a day, it grew rancid and inedible. God, (Jesus, “The bread of life”) and His word are our manna today. Doesn’t it make sense to gather it daily? When we don’t, it sets us up as a more likely target, right?

God doesn’t say that if we are healthy that Satan will not attack. In truth, Satan sees healthy Christians as a threat and doesn’t like them, (Aww…too bad!). It’s kind of a left-handed compliment. The good news is that healthy Christians are best prepared to defend themselves. See Ephesians chapter 6:10-17 about the, Armor of God.” Satan is no match for the power of God, His word and His people…when they are healthy and together. Insufficient nourishment and isolation set us up for successful attack. How many of us want that? Something to think about…

A first grader came to the ophthalmology office where I work to have his vision checked. He sat down and I turned off the lights. Then I switched on a projector that flashed the letters F, Z and B on a screen. I asked the boy what he saw. Without hesitation he replied, “Consonants.”

Two small boys met during their first day at school. “My name is Billy. What’s yours?” asked the first boy. “Tommy,” replied the second. “My daddy is an accountant. What does your daddy do for a living?” asked Billy. Tommy replied, “My daddy is a lawyer.” “Honest?” asked Billy. “No, just the normal kind,” replied Tommy.

Impact Church,141 E. Main St. Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Each Sunday, adult lessons start at 9:00 am followed by the worship service at 10:30 Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life. It’s friendly and it’s free. Until next time, look up and smile!

APRIL 5, 2025: THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE

Isn’t America great?! We have rights and freedoms that much of the world has never known. Generally speaking, our wealth allows us the choices of what to eat, where to live, and what to wear. Our form of government and its laws gives us the right to vote, own property, and pursue, “Life, Liberty and Happiness.” Man it is great to be an American! That doesn’t mean, however, that we make perfect choices with those rights and freedoms, does it? I have a right to buy a house, but that doesn’t mean I that I will like it or agree with the price or even be wise in buying it. The government makes laws that they think are best, but we don’t necessarily agree with all of them do we? So how do WE know what rights are right? I’m glad you asked!

Slavery was a right, but was it right? How did we really know that it wasn’t? It was mainly a heart and conscience issue, right? Would you need a law to believe that it was wrong? Is it that God has put a moral code in each of us and that our conscience and sense of right and wrong come from it? Our parents can tell us what to do, but in the end it is our choice whether to steal that candy bar or not. Is it more that the threat of getting caught that keeps us from doing it? We just know it’s wrong inside. What if a whole lot of people kept telling you it was O.K. and were doing it themselves? Does it become acceptable then?

Over time, many of the things that were historically considered wrong, unethical or immoral have turned into rights. I bet that you can think of several issues right off the top of your head. Why is that? It is probably because you know it is wrong to begin with. There is power in our culture, peer pressure and, “political correctness” but do THEY change what is right? In YOUR heart? The apostle Paul states in Col. 2, “My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding…in Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.”

Yes, the law says we have the right to choose. We also have the right to believe in Santa and The Easter Bunny. God is the ultimate author of truth. Respecting the law does not mean the obligation of agreeing with it. What laws are written on your heart? How strong are your moral convictions? Something to think about…

Once there was a little boy that lived in the country with his father. They had to use an outhouse, and the little boy hated it because it was hot in the summer and cold in the winter – and stank all the time. The outhouse was sitting on the bank of a creek and the boy determined that one day he would push that outhouse into the creek. One day after a spring rain, the creek was swollen and the little boy decided that that was the day to push the outhouse into the creek. So he got a large stick and started pushing. Finally, the outhouse toppled into the creek and floated away. That night his dad told him they were going to the woodshed after supper. Knowing that meant a spanking, the little boy asked why. The dad replied, “Someone pushed the outhouse into the creek today. It was you, wasn’t it son?” The boy answered yes. Then he thought a moment and said, “Dad, I read in school today that George Washington chopped down a cherry tree and didn’t get into trouble because he told the truth.” The dad replied, “Well, son, George Washington’s father wasn’t in the cherry tree.”

Want to hear from God? Come and let Him prove Himself.

Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

MARCH 25, 2025: UNCERTAIN TIMES

Some people have been referring to all that is going on as, "these uncertain times." I think that we all understand why they say this, but are things really that uncertain? Perhaps you are familiar with the saying, "There are only 2 things that are certain in this world, death and taxes." Well, I can't argue with that! The truth is, uncertainty has been with man from the beginning. We have no personal control over many things, from the weather, the economy, politics…a pandemic. If we are not careful and lose focus, fear, worry, anger and frustration might rule the day, and eventually…our lives. So, how do we deal with this, "uncertainty?" Is there anything really to worry about? What is the proper perspective?

The answer is to trust in God for those things that are out of our hands and to also trust Him to give us direction, peace and wisdom in addressing those issues that are. When we understand that in the end, there is nothing here on Earth that can or will thwart God's ultimate plan for us as individuals and indeed for all mankind, (Which is eternal life for those that believe, and for evil to eventually be cast out forever) then we can view our lives as His and not our own. Trusting in God's unfailing love and complete sovereignty can give us a peace that overrides any fears about the here and now, (see Phil. 4:6-8). Worry is faith that hasn't said its prayers, think about it. Does that mean that we should not be concerned and do nothing? Of course not. God has given us His word to direct us through life's issues and His Holy Spirit to inform, comfort, direct and empower us! He provides everything…if we let Him. Some people say, "We do what we can, God does what we can't." There is another time proven reference that perhaps you are familiar with called, "The serenity Prayer." It goes, "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference." How are you dealing with these, "Uncertain times?" Are you looking around us, or up? Something to think about…

A guy is driving around the back woods and he sees a sign on a broken house, “Talking Dog For Sale.” He rings the bell and the owner appears and tells him the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes into the backyard and sees a nice-looking Labrador retriever. “You talk?” he asks. “Yep,” the Lab replies. After the guy recovers from the shock, he says “So, what’s your story?” The Lab looks up and says, “Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the government, so I told the CIA. In no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping.” “I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running…I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals.” “I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I’m just retired.” The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog. “Ten dollars.” the guy says. “Ten dollars? This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?” “Because he’s a liar. He’s never been out of the yard.”

Strange things are happening in our world. Isn’t it time to get connected to the one in control of it all? He wants you to.

Impact Church: www.impactministries.life, 141 E. Main St. Canton. Each Sunday, adult lessons start at 9:30 am followed by the worship service at 10:30. It’s friendly and free. Until next time, look up and smile!

March 22, 2025: EXCITING CHANGE

Have you noticed it? There seems to be a quiet excitement amongst the people concerning the new direction of our nation. The president is moving, “Full speed ahead” in actions consistent with his campaign promises. I believe that the people elected him in hopes that he would be different and make changes that were both positive and long overdue. It appears that much of the media and established political leadership don’t appreciate his unorthodox approach, but many of the people sure do. Why do you think that is? Is it because he is addressing what most Americans feel are priorities and that he says and does things that we strongly agree with? Doing and saying things that up until recently we were afraid to do or admit publicly? It almost feels like we have been set free. What do you think?

You know, Jesus had a similar effect when He walked the Earth. He was not politically correct for the day and offered a radically different approach. He displayed a genuine love and concern for each individual person and still does. He represented a freedom from much of the difficult living required to be in good standing with God and offered a direct relationship between the people and God Himself! The established leadership of the day was so firmly entrenched and threatened that many of them closed their hearts and minds to Him and His movement. So much so, that they captured and killed Him, (or so they thought…). Perhaps you have noticed that some people are NOT happy with the election results! I am NOT putting our new president at the same level as Jesus, however you have to admit that he has changed the atmosphere and caused a stir.

Were you one of the many who thought that there we needed long overdue necessary changes, but didn’t feel like you had the freedom to act or say anything? Until we privately spoke it in the election booth, then there was change… Are you one of the many who deep down knows that there are long overdue, necessary changes needed in your life for God? Have you been putting Him off because you felt you were unable or afraid to do or say anything? Well you can, and now is the time. Your voice and heart can be heard right now, privately, just like in the voting booth. What is holding you back?

Jesus wants to be both President and resident in your life. Let Him in and see how it changes everything. Those things that you have long knew were needed will give you that peace and satisfaction that you have been missing. Let go and let God. You will find He is the positive change of direction that your life needs. Something to think about…

Four retired ladies are playing bridge. One of them looks across at her partner and says, “I know we’ve been playing bridge every week for two years, but I can’t remember your name. Could you please tell me again? Her partner looks at her for a long moment and finally replies, “How soon do you need to know?”

An elderly couple was attending church services. About halfway through she leans over and says to her husband. “I just let out a silent one. What do you think I should do?” He replies, “Put a new battery in your hearing aid!” God was still happy she was there and wants YOU there too. Don’t put Him and church off another week. Come and experience something good this Sunday. Impact Church, 141 E. Main

St. Canton. Services start at 10:30 am. Check out, “Church done different.” Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

March 17, 2025: EVERYONE IS DOING IT

"But mom, all the other kids are doing it!” Remember saying that? Do you remember this response, “Well if they all jumped off a cliff, would you do that too?” What the kids wanted to do might not have been as extreme as jumping off a cliff, but it still needed to be filtered through reason and experience by the parents. Perhaps it is a matter of not enough information like, “Can I go to the movies with some friends?” The normal parental response would be…”Who are you going with, do I know them and/or their parents, whose driving, what movie are you seeing, when will you be home etc. , right? We try to keep an eye on what our kids are learning and what their influences are, but are we monitoring ourselves? Is it really necessary now that we are, “adults”?

It is easy to become a product of our environment. What we see and hear through cell phones, T.V., the radio and computers has always, in some way shaped our culture and as a result, some of us. Now that we have media 24/7 in the palm of our hand from thousands of sources, there is literally a world of opportunity for our children and ourselves to be affected. When our kid’s grades slowly decline, we usually notice it and try to identify the cause, right? What not long ago might have been an “R” rated movie is now, “PG 13”. What are we watching, listening to, and filtering? Do we have or take the time? Can we trust, “The world’s” filter? Have we allowed a media with a big microphone to implement things that at one time would not have passed our own personal, “filter” to become acceptable? I am bringing this up because I wonder, if our filters have become clogged, allowing us to slowly, “Jump off the cliff.”

God has from the very beginning had a plan for us and principles by which we should live, successfully! His filter does not change or get clogged. The truth is, our nation was founded through His filter and He, (along with effort and obedience on our part) is the reason we have been as prosperous and successful as anyone in human history. Have you recognized the downhill change? It’s not too late to live your life as God intended you to. Look into what He says, and learn from the best. Like for example, Proverbs 14:12 states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Something to think about…

Moses, Jesus, and an old man were enjoying a friendly round of golf together. Moses stepped up to the tee and hit the ball. It went sailing over the fairway and landed in the water trap. Moses then parted the water and chipped the ball onto the green. Jesus stepped up to the tee and hit the ball. It went sailing over the fairway and landed in the water trap. Jesus just walked onto the water and chipped the ball onto the green. The old man stepped up to the tee and hit the ball. It went sailing over the fairway and headed for the water trap. But, just before it fell into the water, a fish jumped up and grabbed the ball in its mouth. As the fish was falling back down into the water, an eagle swooped down and grabbed the fish in its claws. The eagle flew over the green where a lightning bolt shot from the sky and barely missed it. Startled, the eagle dropped the fish. When the fish hit the ground, the ball popped out of its mouth and rolled into the hole for a hole-in-one. Jesus then turned to the old man and said: “Dad, if you don’t stop fooling around, we won’t bring you next time.”

Are you skeptical of God? Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

MARCH 09, 2025: Jr. High Thinking

Wasn’t puberty great? Can you remember what was important to you when you were in Junior High? If you can, how many of those things still matter today? I know that it was an age of, “sorting things out” but as life changes, those priorities now seem silly and misdirected, don’t they? I wonder if some of the other, “important” things of our past now also appear senseless in today’s light? I’m not saying that they weren’t relevant and significant at the time, but things change, don’t they? What’s important now? Will it be in the future?

How about the distant future…like eternity? Eternity is hard to grasp, all I can say about it is that it is a long… long…time. If I knew in Junior High what I know now, I might not have taken things so seriously. In the end, it didn’t really matter so much, did it? The question is, do I have, “Junior High” thinking today? Do you? Let’s see.

Jesus says in Matthew 6, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What does this mean? It means that if you are living for yourself here today, then your heart is in the wrong place (Jesus also said to love God first and others as much as yourself Matt. 22). Having a car, a house and a bank account aren’t bad things, but they aren’t as important to God as having a heart that wants to share and give to others is. So…

Our money, our time and our talents were given to us by God and meant to be shared. For many of us, this doesn’t come easy; after all, I come first, don’t I? Not if your heart has been changed… and Jesus changes hearts. That’s one of the reasons He came. The heart of Christ shows us what is truly important here and now AND in the future. It is so that while we are here that we don’t have, “Junior High” thinking. So remember, do your giving while you’re living so you’re not crying when you’re dying. Something to think about…

Little Johnny had a cussing problem and his father was getting tired of it. He decided to ask his doctor what to do. The Dr. said, “Since Christmas is coming up, you should ask Johnny what he wants Santa to bring him. If he cusses while he tells you his wish list, leave a pile of dog poop in place of the gift or gifts he requests.” Two days before Christmas, Johnny’s father asked him what he wanted. “I want a @&*)_!$ teddy-bear laying right beside me when I wake-up. When I go downstairs I want to see a +)*&#@ train going around the tree. And when I go outside I want to see a new #<:{+&! bike. Christmas morning, little Johnny woke up and rolled over into a pile of dog poop. Confused, he walked down stairs and saw another pile under the tree. Scratching his head, he walked outside and saw a huge land mine by the garage. When Johnny walked back inside with a curious look on his face, his dad smiled and asked, “What did Santa bring you this year?” Johnny replied, “I think I got a *?<+*%! dog but I can’t find him.”

Want to find God? Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwikfill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

FEBRUARY 22, 2025: A Diamond Inside

Have you ever given or received a gift where it begins looking like a big present in a big box, only to find when you open the box, there is a smaller box inside? Then another and another, and another until… I expect that it is usually more fun being the giver than the recipient. How many boxes do you open before you think, “This isn’t funny anymore!?” What if, (and maybe you have been there) there is an enormous diamond, stack of money or something else of great value inside the final box? Suddenly the effort and angst of opening all the boxes seems unimportant. “If I only knew, I wouldn’t have complained!”

God never promised that life as a Christian was going to be easy. In fact He said that it wouldn’t, but 1. He would be with us when it gets tough, “…. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). And 2. That enduring life’s hardships and the effort that it takes to remain faithful will be rewarded in the end. “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Cor. 4:17). Here is a problem that I have sometimes.

I forget that He is with me when I am opening life’s, “boxes.” The truth is that there is no trial in my life that is bigger than God. It’s even quite possible that the trial is intended for my benefit, even if I don’t like it or appreciate it. (See James 1:2-4). I also need to remember that no matter how many boxes I have to open or how difficult they might be, that in the end, the present will be so special that any difficulty getting there would be immediately forgotten. Much like a mother soon forgetting the pains of childbirth the instant her baby is in her arms. Even better…

Heaven is forever, and the experience there will be more rewarding than anything we have talked about here. Think about it. Perhaps your life has felt like opening box after box hoping that eventually there will be a gift. Maybe you have given up even looking. If you don’t know Jesus, many gifts for here and now are available, if you make Him lord of your life. If you do know Him, the best gifts are yet to come! Something to remember and something to think about…

A Chinese doctor can’t find a job in a Hospital in the US, so he opens his own clinic and puts up a sign outside. It reads: “GET TREATMENT FOR $20 – IF NOT CURED GET BACK $100.” An American lawyer thinks this is a great opportunity to earn $100 and goes to the clinic. Lawyer: “I have lost my sense of taste.” Doctor: “Nurse, bring medicine from box No. 22 and put 3 drops in patient’s mouth.” Lawyer: “Ugh, this is kerosene!” Doctor: “Congrats, your sense of taste is restored. Give me $20.” The annoyed lawyer goes back after a few days to recover his money. Lawyer: “I have lost my memory. I cannot remember anything.” Doctor: “Nurse, bring medicine from box no. 22 and put 3 drops in his mouth.” Lawyer (annoyed): “This is kerosene. You gave this to me last time for restoring my taste.” Doctor: “Congrats. You got your memory back. Give me $20.” The fuming lawyer pays him and then comes back a week later determined to get back $100. Lawyer: “My eyesight has become very weak I can’t see at all.” Doctor: “Well, I don’t have any medicine for that, so take this $100.” Lawyer (staring at the note): “But this is $20, not $100!!” Doctor: “Congrats, your eyesight is restored. Give me $20.”

Don’t put church and God off another week. Come and experience something good this Sunday. Check out, “Church done different.” Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.) Services start at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

FEBRUARY 15, 2025: Resistance & Capacitance

Have you ever looked at and tried to figure out an electronic circuit board like the ones you find in a computer or radio? Most of us would probably describe it as a maze of silver trails connecting a lot small unidentified plastic parts, (Perhaps an aerial view of a housing development?). Somehow it all works together to make the computer work and the radio play. Each of the small plastic components has a specific purpose so that the right amount of current or voltage gets to where it needs to be, some more, some less. Here is how it works…sort of.

The component designed to oppose the flow is called a resistor. They come in a variety of strengths, from very little to stopping almost everything, like how much you pinch a garden hose. Then there are also units that work to prevent any change in the flow and even store energy for when it is needed. They are called capacitors. I don’t know about you, but there are times when I wish I had a pocket full of capacitors in my life! (Excuse me while I go take a nap). Perhaps we are made more like circuit boards than we realize. In life, resistance and capacitance can be used together to help make things work and run smoothly.

For example, James 4:7 says, “Submit yourselves then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Sin in our lives restricts the flow of God’s Spirit. The afore-mentioned devil knows our specific weak points and tries really hard to take advantage of them. If we are not prepared with the adequate strength resistor, as in, “Just say no”, then he gets in and clogs up the flow. It is hard to be strong when our energy has been reduced, and the more he gets in, the weaker we become. We need capacitance!

Capacitance comes from God. Being close to Him, along with proper preparation make it difficult if not impossible for Satan, (the great resistor) to restrict the power flow. The, “Armor of God” is explained in Ephesians chapter 6. We do need to truly apply it to our lives in order for it to be effective though. Regular connection with God, through prayer, worship, His word and His people charge our systems and help prevent any change in flow, just like a capacitor. It sounds easy, but it is something we need to continually work at. So resist the devil and charge up! Something to think about…

In a land far, far away, there was a Christian parish that had many attendees. There was a priest who was part of it that used to give out miniature crosses that he made by hand. One Sunday, he announced that he would be giving them out. The congregation in the church that day reacted with glee. “Put this cross in the room where your family argues most,” he advised. “When you look at it, the cross will remind you that God is watching.” When the parishioners were leaving the church, a woman walked up to the priest, shook his hand and said, “I’ll take five.”

God’s love is, “On the house”. Have you accepted it? He wants you in His house. A house that makes you feel welcome and at home. Impact Church, 141E. Main St. in Canton (across from Kwikfill Mkt.) Services are Sundays at 10:30 am. There is something for you, your friends and your whole family. Call 570-673-5912 and hear messages and more at www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

FEBRUARY 08, 2025: Market Value

On May 14th, 2019, a painting by Claude Monet sold for 110.7 million dollars at auction. The last time the painting was auctioned was in 1986 and sold for…2.5 million. Why was it worth 44 times more in 2019? The answer is, its market value. What it really means is that what something is worth comes down to what someone is willing to pay for it. That is its true value. Consider what holds the most value to you in your life? What would be the limit, if any of the sacrifice that you would be willing to make to save it, or them? Have you ever wondered what YOUR market value is? Are you worth more or less than a Monet? Let’s see…

Jesus loved us/you enough that He left His position in Heaven to come to Earth and live as just a man. He loved you enough to be ridiculed, beaten and whipped and scourged within an inch of His life. He loved you enough to suffer the excruciating, long and tortuous death that was Roman crucifixion, and His Father, God, loved you enough to send Him. That is YOUR market value to God. Say that out loud…

Jesus came to buy us back. Man was destined for eternal Hell until the Son of God sacrificed Himself to save us/you. His extraordinary love hasn’t changed, and I believe that He would do it again just for you if it were necessary. Read the following passage in John and insert your own name where it says, “the world.” “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Let me ask you…

Do you think that the person who bought the painting for 100.7 million dollars forgot about it and left it behind? Jesus paid more for you and loves you more than anything on Earth; don’t you want to go home with Him? Something to think about…

A mechanic was removing a cylinder-head from the motor of a Harley motorcycle when he spotted a well-known cardiologist in his shop. The cardiologist was there waiting for the service manager to come and take a look at his bike when the mechanic shouted across the garage: “Hey, Doc, want to take a look at this?” The cardiologist, a bit surprised, walked over to where the mechanic was working on the motorcycle. The mechanic straightened up, wiped his hands on a rag and asked, “So Doc, look at this engine. I open its’ heart, take the valves out, repair any damage, and then put them back in, and when I finish, it works just like new. So how come I make close to minimum wage and you get the really big bucks when you and I are doing basically the same work?” The cardiologist paused, smiled and leaned over, then whispered to the mechanic. “Try doing it with the engine running”

God can do surgery on YOUR heart. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton (Across from Kwikfill Mkt.) Check it out at www.impactministries.life Each Sunday, adult lessons start at 9:00 am followed by the worship service at 10:30. Something for the kids too! It’s friendly and free. Until next time, look up and smile!

FEBRUARY 01, 2025: Book Album Cover

Two of the things that I enjoy doing in my leisure are reading and listening to music on vinyl records. I’m not sure, but I believe that, in part, these practices have contributed to larger belt sizes recently…uh pardon me, I digress. Call me, “Old School” but I still prefer to read the traditional paper books and most of my musical interests are from decades ago. This means that when I want to add a book or record to my collection, I am shopping for used condition copies. Normally descriptions include separate condition ratings for both the outside, (cover) and then the inside. I buy books to read and records to listen to and generally not as financial investments. The readability of the book and the sound quality of the record is where the value is. A pristine album cover with a scratchy record or a new looking book with missing pages are nearly worthless to me. God feels the same way.

About people that is. When the prophet Samuel was sent to identify God’s chosen king, (the shepherd boy, David} he dismissed seven of his older brothers first. When the oldest brother, Eliab, (the first born) was presented to Samuel’ 1 Samuel 16:6 and 7 says…When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD’s anointed stands here before the LORD.” But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” It’s true isn’t it? Historically, cultures have placed great value on appearance and birthright, and in many places they still do. If we are not careful, that influence can rub off on us…can’t it? Hey there’s nothing wrong with a great appearance, but from God’s viewpoint, (and hopefully ours) the cover isn’t the important thing. The good news is..,

If our hearts have some scratches and are playing poorly, of if they are missing some pages, God can fix it. God has been cleaning and changing people from the inside-out for thousands of years and that can mean you right now. He says in 2 Cor. 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” When God’s love enters YOUR heart, suddenly you become more attractive to others! Something to think about…

An American businessman goes to Japan on a business trip, but he hates Japanese food, so he asks the concierge at his hotel if there’s any place around where he can get American food. The concierge tells him he’s in luck, there’s a pizza place that just opened, and they deliver. The concierge gives the businessman the phone number, and he goes back to his room and orders a pizza. Thirty minutes later, the delivery guy shows up to the door with the pizza. The businessman takes the pizza and starts sneezing uncontrollably. He asks the delivery man, “What the Heck did you put on this pizza?” The delivery man bows deeply and says, “We put on the pizza what you ordered, pepper only.” Sorry…

Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton. It doesn’t matter what you wear, just come. It’s friendly and free. Each Sunday, adult lessons start at 9:00 am followed by the worship service at 10:30. Try www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

JANUARY 25, 2025: Grave Epitaph

Here are some real world grave stone epitaphs for amusement and consideration, “Stranger tread this ground with gravity, dentist Brown is filling his last cavity.” “Here lies Ann Mann, who lived an old maid, and died an old Mann.” “Here lieth Mary, the wife of John Ford, We hope her soul has gone to the Lord. But if for Hell she has changed this life, she had better be there than John Ford’s wife.” (Stone of a young man fond of motor cycles), “He sped himself to an early grave, never to enjoy the time he saved.” “First a cough carried me off. Then a coffin, they carried me off in.” “Here beneath this stone we lie, back to back my wife and I. And when the angel’s trump shall trill, if she gets up then I’ll lie still!” “Under the sod and under the trees, lies the body of Jonathan Pease. He is not here, there’s only the pod; Pease shelled out and went to God.” “Here lies the body of Jonathan Blake, stepped on the gas instead of the brake.” And finally, here lies john Yeast, “Pardon me for not rising.”

Have you ever wondered what you want your stone to say? How about what others might write on it? Some recent markers identify what people did for a living, hobbies or the people and things that were important to them. I hear that the newest thing is a video remembrance on the stone itself. Leaving a positive legacy and being remembered are good things, but no matter how well we live or what we are remembered for, we all will leave the world that we are in now. Here is one from a stone in Cornwall England, “Here lies a man who left the world never knowing why he was brought into it.”

Sadly, many in the world die in the very same state. Is that where you are? Is there a purpose and a plan to your life? Something greater than yourself? Hebrews 9 says, “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.” There were many eye witnesses to the miracles of Jesus and to His being alive after being confirmed dead. It was also Jesus who said that He was the ONLY Avenue to Heaven, (John 14:6). Isn’t that enough to at least consider the Bible as truth? After all, a great epitaph won’t be much solace if you are viewing it from Hell. Something to think about…

It was three o’clock in the morning, and the receptionist at a posh hotel was just dozing off, when a little old lady came running towards her, screaming. “Please come quickly,” she yelled, “I just saw a naked man outside my window!” The receptionist immediately rushed up to the old lady’s room. “Where is he?” asked the receptionist. “He’s over there,” replied the little old lady, pointing to an apartment building opposite the hotel. The receptionist looked over and could see a man with no shirt on, moving around his apartment. “It’s probably a man who’s getting ready to go to bed,” she said reassuringly. “And how do you know he’s naked, you can only see him from the waist up?” “The dresser, honey!” screamed the old lady. “Try standing on the dresser!”

You don’t have to stand on the dresser to meet with God. Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwik Fill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

JANUARY 18, 2025: Heaven & Reality

What do you imagine Heaven to be like? In your mind, is it the way you would like it to be? Many of us know it’s not really about naked angels in the clouds playing harps or, “St. Peter at the pearly gates” but what is it really? Perhaps you are one of the many that believe that it will be what gives you the most pleasure here, only better, or it’s free reign to do whatever you want. Maybe it’s the time when you were happiest here, continually? The Bible does not give specifics on Heaven, but it is clear that it is NOT what you personally want it to be or even think it should be. In fact, the main focus in Heaven will be about God, not us. So then why is it so great?

It is because at the very least, there will be no more pain, sorrow, disease, worry, guilt or evil there. We will be in the presence of an awesome God and He IS love, (1 John 4:8). I’m not sure that we can comprehend how good it will be, in fact 1 Corinthians 2:9 states, “But, as it is written, What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.” God showed the apostle John a vision about the future including Heaven, (The book of Revelation) and John had a very difficult time trying to describe what he saw in terms we could understand. It was beyond his description. We are not intended to completely understand, but one thing for sure, IT WILL BE AWESOME!

In our limited thinking, we can’t believe or understand that something could be better than the best things we have now, but it will be. More importantly, it’s not about US anyway, both here while alive or in Heaven. God is in charge and knows and wants what’s best for us now AND then. We need to focus on our standing with Him now and let Him and His good hands take care of the future. If not, the future is, well…Hell. Something to think about…

Two robins were sitting in a tree. "I'm really hungry," said the first one. "Me too," said the second. "Let's fly down and find some lunch." They flew to the ground and found a nice plot of plowed ground full of worms. They ate and ate and ate until they could eat no more. "I'm so full I don't think I can fly back up to the tree," said the first one. "Me neither. Let's just lay here and bask in the warm sun," said the second. They plopped down, sitting in the sun. No sooner than they had fallen asleep, when a big fat tomcat snuck up and gobbled them up. As the cat sat washing his face after his meal, he thought, "I just love 'Baskin' robins!”

Don’t put church and God off another week. Come and experience something good this Sunday. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. Canton. Services start at 10:30 am. Check out, “Church done different.” Call 570-673-5912 or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!

JANUARY 11, 2025: Shipped!

“Your package has shipped!” Sound familiar? Online shopping and home delivery have become a regular part of life for many of us. The cyber world provides many options, is convenient and can even save money. And who doesn’t like getting a package in the mail? “Oh boy, it came!” Waiting, in our instant gratification, get it now world can become challenging if we let it. After all, we don’t have to, “wait for Christmas” anymore. We can get express overnight shipment if we really want it. Do you sometimes track your packages? (Guilty). How about when they say that your package has been shipped, but when you check on it later, it states that a shipping label has been created, but in truth it is just sitting there waiting to be entered into the delivery system, sometimes for days. It’s no big deal, just tell me when it really HAS been shipped, OK? This got me to thinking.

Has your shipping label for Heaven been created? How do you know? Many think that believing in, “A god” and being a good person, (God knows my heart and I help others, give etc.) will mean going to Heaven when we die. This feels right, but is it true? Not according to God. In fact, He says that none of us can earn our way no matter how good we are and no matter how much we do or give to others. These are all good things that God tells us to do, but they mean nothing, unless…you believe that Jesus died for YOU and your sins against God as a sacrifice in your place (See Eph. 2:8-9). It is also imperative that you make Him the Lord (Commit to His direction and Spirit as taking first place) in your life. We need to let Him take control. You might think that you, “have been shipped” but you’re not. He is not who we think He should be, or the one we want Him to be. He is God and we are NOT. This is good because He knows better than we do and what is best for us, even if we don’t agree or understand. So…

Contemplate what it means in Romans 10:9, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Take seriously what Jesus says In John chapter 3, Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ God can make you a new person when you sincerely ask His forgiveness and ask His Spirit to enter your life. Then…you won’t be in the warehouse just wearing a shipping label, you will be in the delivery system!! Something to think about…

Some groaners just for you: Just got attacked by 6 dwarves. Not Happy. A priest, a minister, and a rabbit walk into a blood bank. The rabbit says, “I believe that I am a type o.” A friend of mine is an agnostic, dyslexic insomniac. He stays up all night long wondering if there’s a dog. Plateaus are the highest form of flattery. What did they give the guy that invented the door knocker? A No-bell prize. When does a joke become a dad joke? When it’s apparent. Two fish swim into a concrete wall. One turns to the other and says, “Dam.” What does a thesaurus eat for breakfast? A synonym roll. And…You can’t explain a pun to a kleptomaniac. They take things, literally.

Want to find God? Come and let Him prove Himself. Impact Church, 141 E. Main St. in Canton, (across from Kwik fill Mkt). Services are Sun. at 10:30 am. Call 570-673-5912, Or visit www.impactministries.life Until next time, look up and smile!