Random Thoughts On Random Topics

When several things happen close together and each one is worthy of comment, what is one to focus upon in a blog? My solution is to write a little about each of them.

MAY 11, 2025 - MOTHER'S DAY

We all share an element of life regardless of our nationality, our culture, our language, or our country of origin. Each one of us was born of a woman - a mother. We may have differing opinions or memories of our mothers, but none of us would be here were it not for our mothers.

In my family I have observed several variations from generation to generation. Those variations include stay-at-home mothers, working mothers, age of becoming a mother, styles and technics of discipline, and methods of food preparation or food acquisition. But one thing that really overshadows all of that is regardless of the variations, each mother's love has always been present and dominate for each of her children.

For those of us whose mothers have passed on, one memory that we should hold onto beyond any others is that she loved you. I know that my mother loved me. For those of you whose mothers are still living, this would be a great time to tell her that you love her and know that she loves you.

MAY 8, 2025 - THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH ELECTS A NEW POPE

Robert Francis Prevost was elected by the Cardinals in Conclave as the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He is now officially named Pope Leo XIV. I am not Catholic so he is not the head of my church or denomination, but this was a historic event. It was historic because he is the first Pope from the United States, but more importantly, he is the first Pope with the technological advances to be able to speak to the entire world.

There are many denominations of Christians, followers of Jesus Christ. The denominations differ because of differences in theology, methodologies, practices, organization, or structure. But Pope Leo XIV made a statement in his opening remarks as the new Pope that is not just limited to Catholics.

"We are disciples of Christ. Christ precedes us.

The world needs His light."

". . . always seeking peace, justice, always trying to work as

men and women faithful to Jesus Christ, without fear,

to proclaim the gospel, to be missionaries."

Christians of all denominations can find common ground in those remarks because they are based on the commission that Jesus gave to His disciples following His resurrection.

"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing

them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the

Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have

commanded you. And remember, I am with you always,

to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20

APRIL 29, 2025 - THE BIRTH OF OUR SECOND GREAT-GRANDCHILD

This may not be important to you, but it is very important in our family. This is how generations begin and continue. We now have a great-grandson to go along with our great-granddaughter, his older sister (by sixteen months). I knew all of my grandparents, but all of my great-grandparents had passed on before I was born. Now, my wife and I are privileged to have lived long enough to have our two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Each of those individuals are part of God's miraculous blessings that He extends by His timing and will. Perhaps, we shall live longer and see those numbers increase even more. But whatever the number, my prayer is that each one and those that they add by marriage will all be followers of Jesus and serve Him in the ways that He will lead. Whether your family be large or small, I would encourage you to have the same or similar prayer and hope for your family.

APRIL 27, 2025 - MY BIRTHDAY

I am thankful for another year of life for many reasons. My wife and I have been blessed so far with 56 years of marriage and are closing in on number 57. I was privileged to lead a Bible study at our church. And I got to experience the three random things of the past two weeks.

2025 - TO THE END OF THE AGE

What are you thankful for in your life and looking forward to under God's leadership in the weeks, months, and years ahead? Every day has the potential for blessings and growth as we follow and serve our Lord. Have a great week.