The Trenches

There are a few things that twist my heart sideways and squeeze my tear ducts. One of these things is our ARMED FORCES. My grandfather drove a Sherman tank in World War 2. He was hero, patriot and warrior! Without a doubt he was the toughest man I have ever known. I love him so much and only now, that he's in heaven, does he know how much he influenced me.

I was like most young boys and always wanted to hear war stories. Most often he would turn into "ice" when I would ask about the war and sometimes he would ignore me with a stare that made me wonder if he was going to shoot me just for asking. Occasionally, he would spill out a story that would engrave itself to my memory. Like the time his best friend fell back into the tank headless after peeking out the top. Or, the time he bombed a church that was suppose to hold German soldiers. He almost went insane after he found out it was women and children.

My mom says that when she was a girl, he would often walk up to someone at the rodeos they constantly attended, who left his hat on during the National Anthem, and notify them that if they didn't remove it, that he would "knock their lights out".

I think because of him, I have always been patriotic. I seldom attend a sporting event where I don't get a little sweaty around the eyes as they sing our anthem. I've never spent a day in the military and don't know the difference between a Captain or a Colonel. What I do know, is this, I love the military. I am the guy in the airport who constantly walks up to soldiers "on leave" from fighting in the Middle East or wherever, to tell them I appreciate them. They seem grateful for my appreciation!

In November 2009 we are doing a MAJOR four day crusade in Clovis/Portales, New Mexico. We are working with multiple churches from all denominations. We have secured a 6,500 seat facility and expect to have 25 to 30 thousand people from every background to attend our crusade.

Resting between the two cities there is a large airforce base that I'm hungry to infiltrate with the Gospel. We are having a special emphasis night for the military where I will preach on the cross and an actor from Atlanta will portray the Roman Centurion who antagonized the crucifixion. I want to reach these families for Christ as well as SHOW them that they are respected, loved and appreciated. Our vision is to give every miltary family who attends our crusade, a 50 dollar gift card. No strings attached! I have 2 motives. I want to bless them for serving this country, and give them the opportunity to hear the Gospel. It's a unique idea, that "to my knowledge", no other ministry is doing. My prayer is, that multitudes of OUR airmen will meet Jesus. A lot of churches and ministries talk about reaching the world. However, in many cases it's only a slogan. I'm convinced this is a real way to actually touch the world for Christ. Many of these airmen who accept Jesus, will be transferred to other bases, in cities and countries abroad. Although all will not accept Jesus, I would be thrilled to reward them for their service, "regardless".

Bumper stickers like "I support our Troops" or flags on car antennas are fine, but they don't put food on the table. People cannot live on "God Bless You's"! I want to give you an opportunity to do something to aide our troops that has some tangible benefit. Our budget is $25,000. Obviously, our ministry could never do this without significant help. Would YOU be willing to give to this project??? What is it worth to provide an airman with an incentive to come hear the Gospel? Is there any greater way to say "thanks" than by introducing them to Jesus? Can YOU get in the trenches with them and us?

I am asking you to give, in the same way they serve us - sacrificially. This ministry will not keep one red cent. Neither me, nor our team will be compensated in any way by your gift. All gifts are tax deductible and all monies earmarked for this project go directly to the airmen. In essence, you are giving through us.

We have to know well in advance if we are going to be able to complete this. There is much publicity and planning in place months before this crusade begins. Therefore, if you plan on being a part, PLEASE NOTIFY US by e mail within the next week. Maybe you even know a individual or corporation that would be interested in supporting this endeavor. If so, please forward this e mail.