Bro. James Price

I am sad to report that Bro. James went to be with the Lord on 9/25. He was 78 years old. Bro. James holds a special place in my heart. I had the priveledge of leading him to the Lord at the young age of 71. I will never forget the first time I met him. I had just become the pastor of New Providence. I was asked by some of his wife's family members to go visit him and their sister. As I stood there on the steps of the house, James opened the door. He asked if he could help me. I told him that I hoped I could help him. He invited me in and immediately asked, "Are you a salesman?" I replied that I was the new pastor down the road.

As we began to talk, he told me some of the history of the church. It wasn't all good, either. I just looked at him and said that that happened before I was born. He just looked at me kind of strange. He said, "I like you. Want a Dr. Pepper?" Of course, I said yes. I stayed there about an hour. He told me as I was leaving that he was busy that Sunday, but, that he would try to come the following week. I just looked at him and replied that I would hope to see him.

James and Ruby came to church the following Sunday, just like he said he would try to do. From that point on, for 3 years, unless he and Ruby were sick or away, they were at church. He accepted Christ as his Lord and was baptized into the fellowship of the church.

My wife and I were very close to this dear couple. In fact, they caused me to have a panic attack once. Becky was pregnant with Daniel and a storm was coming. I decided to leave work a little early because I didn't want Becky to be home alone when the storm hit. I drove as fast as I could go without getting a ticket. I pulled into the driveway and went to the door. It was locked. I thought that maybe she went to the neighbor's house. Barbara stated that she hadn't seen Becky. I thought maybe she walked down to "Grandma's" house. Grandma was the oldest member of the church. Nope. Not there.

Where could she be. I thought about Ruby and James. They have often asked us to come and eat with them. I drove down to the state line and knocked on the door. James answered the door and said, "We kidnapped your wife and she and Ruby are in the kitchen cooking." Of course, he had that big grin on his face. Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and Dr. Pepper. I should have known from the very beginning where she had gone. I had never felt uncomfortable at their home. They always treated me and my family as their own. To this day, I still enjoy the conversations Ruby and I have on the telephone.

Bro. James will be missed. My heart is sad and hurting today. My prayers go out to Ruby and her family during this difficult time. Bro. James will always be a ray of hope and sunshine in my life. He has gone to touch the face of God.

English Church Blog

I have created a blog for our English Church here in Pingtung. Please feel free to look at it. Will keep it updated every Sunday with prayer requests, sermon outlines, announcements, etc. If you have any suggestions or want to post, please let me know.

The blog address: www.pingtungchurch.blogspot.com

Caitlin's Birthday

Caitlin turned 1 year old on September 6th. It was a joyous day for us. I can't believe how big she has grown over the last year. Of course, she loves daddy. And, daddy adores her. Happy Birthday, Queen!