A Newsworthy Family

Gun Totin', Bible Thumpin', Born Again Evangelicals En Masse at Favorite Hangout!!

This could be the headlines on CNN or MSNBC *IF* they had sent their staff to where I've been today.

We went to a funeral today. The families involved are of several generations. Many of them have stayed on their land, kids grew up, married, raised their kids, and, in general, have just "hung together". They laughingly refer to themselves as "the Waltons".

We became acquainted with the Kennedy/Gamblin/Blackburn families over 45 years ago when Hubs went to their small school as Vocational Agriculture teacher. Of course, since then, vocational has become a dirty word in the field of education and the name has been updated to exclude the word. The program has been changed to Agricultural Science and Technology. (but that's another story!)

We have watched the kids grow up into fine young adults. It was one of the patriarchs of the family that was laid to rest.

Yes, it's these kinds of people that have been demonized by the media in recent months. They love to hunt; and, to hunt you have to tote a gun! They love their church; and, when you go to church you take your Bible. And, most of them are "born again", meaning they've renewed their lives by following the example of Christ, the Risen Savior. Of course, the favorite hangout is First Baptist Church! Certainly, if the media got hold of this, they would outshine Joe, the Plumber.

The only thing I left out is the word "bitter". The only way these people become bitter is if one of their own is hurt by another, if the name of their God is abused, if their rights as an American citizen are challenged, if their National Flag is descecrated, if their constitution is challenged.

The service was one of total celebration of life...both to the deceased and to the surviving relatives. It was led by a son and a grandson-in-law. In fact, the whole service was family led; from the opening song to the final contributions of memories from family members.

Wilma, if you read this, you'll be pleased that the service ended with this scripture:

"Finally, brethen, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worth of praise, THINK on these things." Phil.4:8

The following song was sung by a girl with a beautiful voice. I never did find out if she was a member of the family. But I fully suspect she was.

"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"

Chris Tomlin

Amazing grace

How sweet the sound

That saved a wretch like me

I once was lost, but now I'm found

Was blind, but now I see

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear

And grace my fears relieved

How precious did that grace appear

The hour I first believed

My chains are gone

I've been set free

My God, my Savior has ransomed me

And like a flood His mercy rains

Unending love, Amazing grace

The Lord has promised good to me

His word my hope secures

He will my shield and portion be

As long as life endures

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow

The sun forbear to shine

But God, Who called me here below

Will be forever mine

Will be forever mine

You are forever mine

We were blessed.

Peace to your household...