Even during combat missions on one of the most deadly aircraft platforms, I have felt the calmness of God's peace and protection. This book is not about the over 1200 combat hours that I have had an honor and privilege to fl y or the twenty-nine medals and awards that are affixed to my United States Air Force uniform. This book originates from my youth through to my adulthood to become a man whose awareness of the world was altered by the gentle persuading hand of God. There is a scripture verse that reads "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (1 Cor. 2:9). This verse sums up my daily walk with Jesus Christ, for each step has been and continues to make me thirsty for the next step that He has for me to live. Above the battlefield, as well as in life, I am reassured that He will never leave me or forsake me. (Hebrews 13:5).
I have organized this book into three chapters. Within these chapters you will encounter my hopes, dreams, thoughts, compassion, and love for my wife and family, and my love for you. Each page holds a challenging view of the world, Christianity, family, and in living a life pleasing to the One who has made it all happen. While you read, the words will take you on journeys towards a closer understanding of who we are in the Kingdom of God and who we are during this time of Jesus Christ's imminent return.
I have not added a great deal of scripture on each page to explain the views of my heart, for I wanted to reach the heart and not the knowledge of the reader. Scripture verses are located at the end of the book as a reference. Being an ordained Deacon since 1992, does not qualify me, nor anyone else to place their spin on God's Holy Word to meet or fulfill their desires to sway the masses. I have left that for the Holy Spirit to accomplish. My hope is that you will read what is written from a nonjudgmental attitude so that you may receive the meaning that God has wanted to impart to you.
I would be remiss if I didn't share the inspirations to the poems and stories I have included in this book. These inspirations are the Father, Christ Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, three in one Holy Deity. Without the Holy Spirit tugging on my heartstrings, Jesus' sacrificial love and God's continuous hand upon my life I would have never placed these words on paper. If you don't have a personal relationship with the Lord, I hope that you will open your mind's eye and heart to what you are about to read. I am honored to have this opportunity to share with you and I hope you will one day meet me under shade of the tree of life.
When you're finished reading I trust you will have a firm realization that we are living in the last days, which the need for spreading God's love is most gratifyingly vital. Our time on this earth is so temporal that if we were to blink, a lifetime could pass us by. So grasp the refreshing tidbits that will assist you to form a lasting impression of God's love in all to see and feel. I am no different than you, we are on this world together. We breathe the same air, and I hope have the same destiny after we pass-on.