WHEELS COMING OFF....OR JUST A FLAT?

The Detroit Tigers are in a serious funk. Pitching has shown some weaknesses, hitting has been sporadic, and losses are beginning to pile up. I'm observing something that concerns me more than that, however, and Jim Leyland should be made aware of it. It seems the passion is missing. A month ago it seemed like the Tigers were never really out of a game. There was always the confidence that they could snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. No so right now.
If this doesn't turn around soon, they could stay in a downward spiral at a time when all they really need to do is play 500 ball. This begs the question....Are they really ready to play in October? Time will tell.

SPIDERMAN

Every once in a while we are fortunate enough to have friends and acquaintances visit us without our knowledge or an appointment. These are always special times and we have great memories of the many people - some famous - who've taken the time to stop in and just say "hello."

Tuesday was such a day....and a big one at that. Spiderman dropped by on his way to save O.J. from another wrongful conviction in traffic court. It sure was good to see him. Our granddaughter, Savannah, enjoyed Spidey's visit immensely.

I won't blow your cover Aitchie.

WHEN CLOUDS HIDE THE SUN

Throughout the year I find myself looking at the weather patterns and checking to see what kind of weather is coming my way. There's nothing I can do about the weather...I can't change it, reroute it, delay it, or keep it longer. I can only prepare for it and wait for it to arrive. I used to think that if I carried an umbrella, it wouldn't rain, or if I purchased a snowblower it wouldn't snow. Not so.

When clouds move in and block the sun, I don't have to freak out and think that the sun has disappeared. No, I have confidence...or better yet, faith that the clouds will eventually lift or break apart and the sun will once again appear. The sun never left, it was just hidden for a period of time. Isn't that like our spiritual lives?

SACRAMENT SUNDAY

It's a great day when the church comes together to celebrate the sacraments. When we're able to celebrate both sacraments on the same morning, it really rocks the house. This past Sunday was such a day. One service, worshiping one God, with one voice and one faith, celebrating His grace and forgiveness in a meaningful way during the Lord's Supper. Then moving out to the pond and witnessing the fruit of God's grace and forgiveness as 40 people went public with their faith and were baptized. One baptism repeated 38 times. One incredible day.