In the picture are Brandon Turner (nephew) and friend, Bryan Croaker, Melvin and Shon Turner (nephew).
Jesus tells us that there is no greater love than a man who would give up his life for a friend. Jesus had friends He would give up His life for. The Disciples that Jesus chose were people He spent 3 years with. He got to know them as friends as well as those He would depend upon to go out into the world and carry His message to the ends of the earth. He did give up His life for these disciples as well as each one of us. There is no greater love.
Today I spent a good part of the day with Melvin Croaker. He turned 63 yesterday and Pam threw him a party. Lots of family and friends were there celebrating his birthday and spending time with a friend. Yes there were more than a few crawfish, shrimp and many other delicacies consumed. It was good to see so many people there. Children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends were all there to let Melvin know they love him. Melvin is still in chemotherapy for cancer and is maintaining a good attitude with faith that he will be healed. Our prayers are with you Melvin as well all those who are suffering with many different kinds of cancer.
Our prayers are what Jesus calls us to do for those who we call friends. Lets pray for those who are fighting against cancer, lets pray for all of the caregivers, doctors, nurses, wives, husbands, friends or anyone who cares for them. But most important of all lets claim a faith that says our God cares enough for us to be with us through all of our struggles as we all wait for the day we will meet the One who calls us friend.
Wesley United Methodist Church, Orange TX 
May 30, 2010 at 11:25 am |
so beautifully said.
Melvin is a wonderful man and I’m so glad to be able to call him my friend.
Tracie and I are thinking of him this Memorial Day weekend…
May 30, 2010 at 9:13 pm |
Beautifully said, Randy. Our prayers are also with Melvin that he will be completely healed as well as others in our church and community with cancer and other health problems.
There is nothing on earth that is more dear to us than family and friends. That includes church family also.
May 31, 2010 at 6:37 am |
I have been truly blessed with a very loving family and great friends. It was day to reflect on the past 1 1/2 since I started my treatments for cancer and the loving support I have received from so many people. The spiritual guidance from Randy and Jane during this time has meant so much to Pam and I that I can not express the words to say thanks. The thoughts and prayers from our church family has helped us both to maintain a postive attitude thruout this time. Again THANKS for to all for your prayers.