8/9/05

Message

WHY? Some of us are parents, some of us aren't. But I think we've all been around little kids, particularly three and four year olds. They're curious and growing fast. They're learning about the world around them. I never had kids, myself (although I was one - a long time ago.) Kids are great! One thing about them that seems to drive many parents nuts is how little kids can keep asking, "Why?" Why this and why that, on and on. Actually, "Why?" is a very good question. Grown-ups ask it too or at least they should. Thinking people from teens on up ask very important questions, like, "Where am I going to live?," "What am I going to do?," "Who am I going to marry?," and so on. Thinking men and women from teens on are especially asking "Why am I here?" or, "What's my purpose in life?" This is one of the most important questions a person can ever ask. Fortunately, there are answers. Considering the magnitude of the question, both for you, me, and everyone who was ever born, it's smart to go to an authority that's better than just what we or other smart people can figure out on their own. That means going to the Word of God, the Holy Bible. After all, since God made us along with the rest of creation, it's only reasonable that we should go to the source for the answer to this question. So I checked in the Bible and found some of the many verses that give the answer: "Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins. You used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince of the power of the air…. All of us used to live that way…. But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor that you have been saved!) … And so God can always point to us as examples of the incredible wealth of his favor and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us through Christ Jesus. God saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." (Ephesians 2:1-5, 7-8, 9 NLT). It looks to me that your purpose and mine is to be what God wants us to be, which makes sense since he's the one who made us and gave us our DNA, our body, our mind, and our soul. He also put us where he planned for us to be located, including who our parents would be, what our sex, race, and nationality would be and also which century we would be born in. Besides all that he planned that we should be united with him through the gift of salvation and eternal life through his son, Jesus Christ. And, finally, he decided that our purpose is to do what he wants us to do, how he wants us to do it, and when he wants it done. When, and as we commit to that plan and purpose, the plan and purpose will happen. Maybe you won't see it all at once, but it will open up a step at a time as you proceed with your life. You can ask, "Why?" all you want. Just be ready and open for the answer. It's there and it'll come and it'll knock your socks off as it does. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth 176 Rainbow Dr, #7627, Livingston, TX 77399. LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

4/14/04

Message

THE PASSION As of now, "The Passion of the Christ" is still going strong in the theaters across America. It's also attracting audiences around the world, including Russia where it's legal on DVD but not in public theaters. Possibly you've seen it. Certainly, all of us know about it from the great interest it's attracted and the controversy generated by the media. Mel Gibson's use of the word "passion" is an accurate description of what Jesus was about as he suffered through that history changing event. I checked the word in the dictionary. Here's what I found: Passion - "usually implies a strong emotion that has an overpowering or compelling effect" (Webster's New World Dictionary, Simon and Schuster, 1982). The movie demonstrated what is clear in the Bible that God, through Jesus his Son, has an overpowering love for every man, woman, and child ever born. That is his overriding passion, his very purpose for coming into this world. His passion was clear from the beginning to the end of this historic movie. I believe you'll also find that passion is a profoundly strong emotion within your own heart as I find in mine. Not as strong as within Jesus' heart, of course, since we're only human. We recognize that we were the object of Jesus' passion. Now for each of us pops the question, "what is the object of my passion?" There are plenty of things to be passionate about. These days, lots of folks are passionate about changing the world in ways it's never been before and God never intended it to be. For one example, take this hot potato of gay marriage. Many activists are passionate about it, pro and con. Why else would it be in the news so much? People on the far left are adamant that marriage should be redefined to be something it's never been in the history of the world. Others, me included, are passionately in favor of keeping marriage what it is by nature as God has created men and women. To us it's clear and we're passionate about it because so much is at stake. In a less hot potato way, there are many other things people are passionate about. Look at NASCAR lately. Some folks really like car racing - again, me too. But I'm not passionate about it. However, I know some who are - some spend big bucks on their cars, others would never miss a race, some know every racer by name and statistics, some will recoil at any hint that theirs isn't the greatest sport since cave men threw rocks. Too many are passionate about eating - check the obesity statistics in the news lately. [Check the "waddle" of many shoppers in your local mall - or look at your profile in the mirror? Whoops!]. Yes, there are sure a whopping lot of things and causes to be passionate about. From a different angle, it's been my pleasure to know some fine folks who are passionate about helping and serving others. In my military career I encountered many true heroes. I've known some who put their honor and their lives in jeopardy for people they didn't even know. I've known many devout and honest Christians who've made a total commitment to serve in the toughest places - as missionaries to jungle tribes, in leadership positions with little reward, in small churches or menial jobs just because it was the right place to be or the right thing to do. I'm one who believes that everyone is passionate about something. What's your passion? God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth Livingston, Texas 77399 176 Rainbow Drive, #7627 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

1/17/04

Message

AN AMERICAN HERO Do you remember Jessica Lynch? I expect you do. She's well known around the country for being a prisoner of war in Iraq during the Iraqi Freedom War. She was a 19 year old PFC from the hollows of West Virginia. She was in a convoy of rear support vehicles that made a wrong turn and got lost in the hostile city of Nasiriya early in the war. Jessi was your ideal hometown girl. She was cute, spunky, independent, and adventurous; the type you'd want for a granddaughter (don't forget, we're not 19 anymore). Nasiriya was loaded with Iraqis who wanted to make Americans dead. When her convoy got lost in that city, there were plenty who were ready and eager to shoot up the convoy, which they did. Jessica was captured. I expect you remember the story of her rescue by American forces. It was a daring and heroic action. Jessica had suffered injuries in the crash of her hummer during the ambush. But it was clear that she'd also been severely brutalized by her captors. They did things to her that you'd never want to happen to any woman, including our female soldiers who wear the uniform as proudly as the men. I'm convinced that Jessica was a hero. She was a real hero, although not because of any great fighting she did. According to her, she was unconscious after the crash and her M16 had jammed while they were making a run for it before the crash. But she's a hero anyway, for having been there, for serving in a tough spot as her country had asked, and for being honest about not doing the shooting and killing that many in the media had given her credit for. She was honest. She was forthright in telling who her heroes were. She did her job and, according to reliable reports, she did it well. Stories of what soldiers sometimes must endure are as endless as they are profound and powerful. We each have our stories, our experiences. Some are rough. Jessica's story continues in that she seems to be doing quite well even though she still has a long way to go toward complete recovery. She seems to be doing well mentally and spiritually too. She's had a lot of support. She has a great family, a great community, and prayers from all over the country. But her injuries were serious. Of the most concern to many, including me, is the three hours she can't remember and how some of the injuries were inflicted that she can't remember. Still her attitude is great and her future is bright. These thoughts don't end here. I want to share with you another story of suffering with a purpose that you probably know. Or maybe you don't know. It's important. It's the foundation of what this country is all about, a foundation which isn't as well known these days as it used to be. But it's true just the same. This story of suffering is the foundation of every life that connects with God Almighty. That's our highest purpose and the reason we were created to start with. I'll explain by quoting from the Word of God because that's the source of my authority for what I'm saying: "…Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps, 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.' When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed." (I Peter 2:21-24 - NIV) Jessica is a hero to me. A lot of you vets are too. Jessica didn't shoot at the enemy. But she was still in the thick of the battle. So she's a hero to me. Others were in the thick of things too. You know what I'm saying. I know you feel deeply about this. So do I. I also feel deeply about what God has done for us through his Son, Jesus Christ. I hope you feel deeply about that too. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth

Date:

10/29/03

Message

MY FAVORITE PRAYER A few weeks ago a good friend of mine asked what my favorite prayer was. My personal background is that of spontaneous prayer (praying as it comes to mind) rather than formal, written prayer. I believe both kinds can be from the heart so both informal, spontaneous praying and formal, written praying are important. Just the same, it took me a little thought to realize the answer to my friend's question. I realized that I do have a favorite written prayer. The Lord's Prayer is almost my favorite, but it's not the one I mean. My actual favorite prayer is Jesus' prayer to his Father God which is written in John chapter 17. (That's the fourth book of the New Testament.) I hope you'll read it. Actually, I hope you'll take a couple of minutes, get a Bible out, and read the chapter now…. I'll wait…. OK…. See what I mean? This is Jesus' prayer to his Father as he was teaching his disciples and preparing for what he knew was to come: his trial and crucifixion. This was the evening before it all happened. He knew what his mission was. It was that he was here in this world for the singular purpose of providing for the forgiveness of the sins of every human ever born and the provision of eternal life in heaven for each and every one of them who would believe in him. He also was preparing for the event of his resurrection from the dead and going back to be with God the Father. That was how he seals our redemption and purpose for living in this world. A main reason this prayer is my absolute favorite is that it proves that there is a reason why I'm in this world to begin with and why I'll be here for however many years are given for me to be what is planned for my life. This prayer also proves that God through Jesus understands what it's all about. That's important to me. I believe it's important to you too. The times I get discouraged, which is often and frequent, it's a real boost to me to read this prayer of Jesus. It reminds me that God does know what's going on, after all. I expect you can see as clearly as I can that this world is in a bit of a mess, which is an understatement. You know what I mean so I won't expound here. But I'm sure encouraged when I read this prayer of Jesus when he says things like, "`I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." This is verses 13-18 of John chapter 17. See what I mean? So think about the world. Then think about why you're in it. Then think about Jesus and his wonderful prayer. (By the way, it's the longest recorded prayer we have of Jesus anywhere.) Think about why Jesus was in the world. It's all there in this prayer of Jesus. See why it's my favorite prayer? Maybe it's your favorite too. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth

Date:

7/25/03

Message

A CLOSE CALL "I should have been dead by now." Have you ever thought like this? I sure have. Like when I was driving on a California freeway a while back. I was in the outside lane minding my own business driving my forty foot motor home with a car in tow. I wasn't even speeding - it's hard to speed in a forty foot motor home. A Camry passed me on the left, going a pretty moderate speed, only 5 or 10 miles over the limit. Trouble is, when we came to a curve in the road he didn't. He didn't curve, that is. He rammed into the guard rail on the left. That threw him across my lane real sudden like. I had to swerve and hit the brakes real fast. It about freaked my wife. Then the Camry hit the guard rail on the right and came to a real sudden stop. That's what I mean by a close call. Closer yet was a time in Viet Nam. My first tour was in the Mekong Delta at Soc Trang, a small airfield that had been Japanese and then French before we took it. This was during the Tet Offensive of '68. One of our guys was out on the perimeter pulling guard duty in a fox hole. It had been dug with a ledge to sit on in the hole. Then the soldier put an old piece of plywood on the seat for a little comfort. Naturally, we got hit that night about two in the morning. That's 0200 hours for you who remember such things (such as me). The VC in our area usually used 75mm recoilless rifles firing indirect rounds at us. Well, one of these rounds came in, landed in our soldier's foxhole, cut that piece of plywood cleanly in two pieces right beside the soldiers butt (right cheek) and lodged into the side without going off. How's that for close? Can you top that? Possibly you can. We all have our close call stories. Close calls sure get our attention. But we're still here to tell about it. Right? Close calls make great stories. They make great memories. They add spice to life, especially considering we still have our life. We made it, close call notwithstanding. The "call" didn't have our number. The crashing Camry didn't hit me and the recoilless rifle round didn't hit the GI. No matter how close, no matter how far, it still didn't hit. What almost happened, didn't happen. Like the old guy said, "A miss is as good as a mile." This reminds me of an incident in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. It's recorded in the Gospel of Matthew 19:16-30. There was a very wealthy young man. He had a lot of influence. He was well liked. He did many good things. Looks to me in the story that he was a plain good guy. Didn't hurt anybody - helped many. Jesus asked him about his character and his soul. He was straight arrow. He was 99% clean. He was 99% what he was supposed to be. He was within sight of being good enough to make it into the Kingdom of God, to go to Heaven when he died. He was very, very close. So was the crashing Camry and the 75mm recoilless rifle round. But close didn't cut it. That extra 1% was the line between getting in and not getting in. And he went away from Jesus sad because he wanted in, but didn't want it bad enough to go 100%. He was close, but close didn't cut it. How about you? Chaplain Larry Haworth - [LEHaworth@aol.com]

Date:

4/15/03

Message

VIET NAM VETS - A PROUD LEGACY "Iraqi Freedom." How does that sound to you? Today, as I write, our troops have almost completed their job of deposing Saddam Hussein and taking out his regime. From what I see, it's making the Iraqi people very happy. And that's an understatement. Have you been following this war? I have. Just as I followed Desert Storm a decade ago. Back then I was still on active duty at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. There have also been other conflicts in the years since we served in Viet Nam. But these wars against the brutal terrorist regime in Iraq have been particularly significant for us as Viet Nam vets. I remember when our troops came home from Desert Storm, how they were given parades and joyous celebrations to welcome them home. I remember that many Viet Nam vets were bitter that these troops were welcomed home whereas we were brought home, dumped onto the tarmac, so to speak, and left to fend for ourselves in a frequently hostile America. Not only were there no welcomes or parades, but there was a whole lot of nasty "unwelcoming activity" making clear that the warrior was seen as an object of disgust rather than as the hero that he really was. Now. Let's acknowledge that this is all true. At least as a broad generalization. However, let's also acknowledge that a whole lot of water has flowed under the bridge since our "homecoming." With the building of The Wall in Washington, DC and with the realization by the people that the Media and many politicians were spinning reality, perceptions changed 100% toward the warrior regardless of the war. These days Viet Nam vets are held in very high regard by almost all Americans. I say this even though schools are not teaching the subject adequately and people are vague about the history of that major event. It's even gotten so there are Viet Nam vet wannabes all over the place that want a piece of the action. Come back with me again to those parades we gave our Desert Storm troops. In the lessons learned department, have you ever stopped to realize that the reason those parades were so hearty and joyous was largely because America properly felt guilty for how it brought its Viet Nam vets home? . Have you stopped to think that these young Desert Storm troops were your own kids? Would you deny this recognition to your own kids? I don't think so. Be happy that they got what you didn't. Be happy that they got what you paid for. It's part of your legacy. Now here we are a decade later. Here we are welcoming a new generation of warriors home from war. Back again from the sands of Iraq and the Middle East. Looks to me that we have a lot to celebrate again. Looks to me like we're returning our own kids again from another war. Except now many are our grandkids. So be happy. Viet Nam vets paid a high price so these young men and women return home as heroes. This nation has learned to separate the soldier from the war. Even the leftists who opposed taking out the brutal Saddam Hussein regime, admit that they must support the warrior. That admission didn't come out of any genetic sense of goodness. It came because the nation learned from the Viet Nam vet that you treat your warriors with respect no matter what you think of those who sent them to fight the wars. It's more of our legacy. There are other lessons learned from the Viet Nam warrior that benefit the young generation of our military in service of America. Look at the embedded reporters in Iraqi Freedom. Some are there in harms way with the soldiers. Even though it's only a few who're putting their money where their mouth is, at least those are out there where the shooting is. Some are in their ivory towers putting their spin on events, but lessons have been learned, anyway. Those lessons came right out of the media and political spinners and agitators from the Viet Nam war. There's a more important event of a greater price paid for a greater good. We understand paying a large price for a greater good. We were part of such a price. We understand that idea pretty well. The greater price I'm talking about was that paid by God for the redemption of our very souls and the fulfillment of the purpose for which we were born. A verse in the Bible makes this clear. It's a popular verse. It takes a lot of abuse and ridicule which is strange, considering that it's true and has the power to transform the life of anyone who accepts it. (We understand that sort of thing, don't we?) The verse is John 3:16-17: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." It's clear that America has learned the lessons from Viet Nam that you respect, appreciate and celebrate the warriors who go to fight your nations battles. I'm glad this has been learned. Our young troopers now come home from war to the parades and appreciation of those who sent them. It's also clear that many appreciate what God has done for them through the price he paid for their salvation. That appreciation is given through accepting that offer of paid-up salvation and purpose through Jesus Christ, his Son. I've accepted that offer. Have you? God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth 176 Rainbow Drive, #7627 Livingston, Texas 77399-1076 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

2/18/03

Message

DAVE

Dave and I have been friends since the early fifties when he and his family moved to our town. I think it was 1950. They joined our church and he became active in our youth group. Several of us boys ran around together. Most of us went to the same high school which helped a lot in keeping us bonded (we wouldn't have known what bonded meant in those days. But it applied, just the same). Several of us have remained in the same church over all these years. The others have stayed close enough to keep in touch, at least occasionally. So the bonds have remained strong. Now Dave is dying of cancer. He's lost a whole lot of weight. He's pretty weak now. But he still gets around the house and takes small walks along the sidewalk just to get out of the house. His last time to go to church was a month ago, although he still goes to an occasional elders meeting. Someone else has to drive. He had to quit driving some time back. However, Dave is a truly blessed man. He's had his ups and downs, of course. Who hasn't? Being human, Dave isn't perfect. Who is? But Dave is a blessed man. He married Sue over forty years ago. She was part of our church youth group too. Through think and thin, they've made it. They're still married. I was in their wedding with other guys of our "gang." Dave joined the Los Angeles Fire Department long time ago. Did a career. A fine career. He made it to Inspector. He didn't like the higher rank near as much as just being on the line. He preferred fighting the fires and driving the trucks - he enjoyed "the thrill of the chase," driving with the red lights flashing and sirens blaring. One of our gang, Gary, was on the Fire Department too. He made battalion chief. He told me the other day about Dave's reputation in the Department. For one thing, Dave always preferred to be stationed in downtown L.A. because that's where the action was. Dave was one of those who liked to go onto the roofs of burning buildings to cut holes to ventilate the fire. He was one who led the way up the stairs of a burning high rise. He still calls it "fun." Gary told me that Dave was one who the other firemen wanted to be with in times of danger because they could always rely on Dave to be there, keep cool, and know what to do in a tight situation. Dave must have been a great dad. You should know his three daughters. [Sue's too, of course]. They're great women now. The ups and downs figure in here too, of course. But the girls have turned out great. They love their dad beyond measure. The two who still live in the area stop by regularly. They just like to be around Dad. The one who lives in Hawaii flies home whenever there's an airline sale and she can get off work. All the girls love the Lord and are committed Christians. Dave knows he's a blessed man. In recent years, Dave's been an elder in our church. Maybe for some that isn't such a big thing. With some you could see leadership written all over them from the beginning. Some of us knew that Dave had it in him, but he's a very quiet and unassuming man of few words. He's been faithful to Jesus Christ and the church all his life. It's how he was raised and how he believes. It's what he is. But his leadership potential didn't come out until more recent years, especially when our church went through some difficult times and needed leadership. Dave came out of the woodwork and has been contributing leadership ever since. He's always contributed 100%. But now he's contributing as an elder and leader in addition to being a solid follower. (Some experts contend that you can't be an effective leader if you haven't been an effective follower - I agree). None of this is to imply that Dave hasn't always known his own mind. He knows exactly what he believes and why. He's one of the most rock solid Christians I know. Gary said this was always clear around the station house or wherever Dave worked with the Fire Department. The other firefighters always knew just where Dave stood and what he stood for. He just wasn't in their face. That's usually the best way. I believe that's how God wanted it. Now Dave's approaching the end of the trail unless the Lord does a miracle for him. That's what we'd like. But it looks like the Lord wants him pretty soon. We will miss him greatly. Even though Dave is a man of few words, when he talks, it's from his heart. It's honest. Dave doesn't mess around with jabber and gossip. He isn't too good with small talk. He's the sort of friend you just like to relax with and watch golf on TV. Or do something fun besides just chew the fat. Don't get me wrong. He'll talk plenty when there's something to say. Like the needs of the church these days [remember, he's an elder] or the leftists in the media and what a mess they're making of things in this country while they ignore and try to manipulate most Americans values and beliefs. Dave is, indeed, a blessed man. His family and friends are blessed too, for having him around. He's still in his early-mid sixties. Far too young to die, I think. But he's just slightly younger than me - about a year or so. He'd rather stick around a few more years. And he's asking God, why? from time to time. But his faith is solid. He knows exactly where he's going when he leaves this life for the next. He'll tell you, without any doubt whatsoever, that he'll join his Savior in heaven along with his Mom and Dad, with Roger our friend, and plenty of other saints. He knows without any doubt that his family and friends will join him in due course. It's only a matter of time. He knows of a certainty, that this bout with cancer is only his ticket to a better place. We who love Dave know this too. Dave can certainly say with the Apostle Paul, "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all those who have longed for his appearing." (II Timothy 4:7-8). In the words of Jesus, God will certainly say to David as he approaches the gates of heaven, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:21). I offer Dave's story to you because I believe it will inspire you as it does me. Dave never considered himself to be an exceptional man. Maybe he is; maybe he isn't. I think he is. But Dave is an exceptional man in ways that every man and woman can be exceptional: Believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior. Live your life deeply committed to Him and deeply committed to whatever God's plan is for your life. Have a love and abiding trust in God, even through the troubling times, even when you have basic life questions that don't seem to have an answer here and now. Dave was (is) a fireman. I was (am) an Army chaplain. Many of you are vets or families of vets. All of us have our life's callings, our life's purpose. We all have our questions. We all have our blessings. We all have our trials. We all need a basic and abiding trust in God. We all need Jesus as our Savior. Dave measures up. Do you? God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth 176 Rainbow Drive, #7627 Livingston, Texas 77399-1076 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

1/1/03

Message

NEW YEAR 2003 GREETING Wide, wide as the ocean High as the heavens above Deep, deep as the deepest sea Is my Saviors love. I, though so unworthy, Still I'm a child of His care. For His Word teaches me That His Love reaches me Everywhere. This is a little song I learned as a child growing up in my home church in Southern California (in the 40s and 50s). Does that date me? I'm glad. Because now, in my sixties (age), I have more experience to draw on to demonstrate the powerful truth of that song I learned long ago. You have your own experience factor. I hope you draw on it for yourself to demonstrate the truth of the love of God for yourself. I've wanted to send something for a New Years greeting but didn't know just what to say, to tell you the truth. As I write this, I'm sitting in our motor home in southeast Texas having been to a very calm, but enjoyable, New Years party last night with plenty of other "young seniors." This morning I was going to sleep in. Then, at 0600 hours (6:00 am for you civilians reading this) the Lord dropped this little powerful song into my mind. I hadn't thought of it in a long, long time - several decades. And that's not an exaggeration. I know it was God's gift to me to start off 2003. I got up right away to get it onto paper because I want you to have these precious words of truth as my New Years gift to you. It will help start off your New Year very well too. That is without qualification - regardless of what the New Year may bring. That includes all anticipated events, both wonderful and not so wonderful, both those you may anticipate with great joy and those you may be anticipating with a measure of dread. I hope all of us realistically expect many blessings this coming year. Some of us look forward to the joy of new grandkids coming into our families. Some of us look forward to long planned retirement. Some of the younger of us look forward to marriage, to new jobs and to other wonderful opportunities that will effect your whole life. Some look forward to the need to adjust to the loss of loved ones. As I sit here one of my closest life-long friends is expecting to meet Jesus face to face in Heaven this coming year. Others must look forward to the loss of physical health or the trials and stresses of unemployment. Indeed, the New Year has much to bring into our lives. Some we want and some we don't want. Most will be of such a nature that we couldn't have anticipated or expected them. And there will be many surprises; some serendipities (an unexpected pleasure God brings into your life just for the sake of making you happy). Now go back to the little song; isn't it wonderful that we can know the love of God? Isn't it comforting to know that God does love us? Unconditionally. I can't outrun God's love. I can't rebel and destroy God's love (I can rebel, but God loves me anyway and is always ready to "mend the fences.") However, I can have the comfort of living within His love. I can share His love. I can demonstrate His love through all that comes my way in 2003. I can have purpose and meaning in all that the New Year brings because of His love. His love surrounds me, even when I don't feel it - which happens, as you know only too well. Isn't it wonderful that God puts things into your mind at the "funniest" of times? Like early this morning at 0600 hours when I thought I'd be sleeping off a raucous New Years Eve of celebrating with Welch's grape-peach juice and Fritos (and watching more skilled people than I try to line-dance?) Have a great New Year, no matter what. Remember "Wide, wide as the ocean...." God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

10/21/02

Message

REMEMBER "LET"S ROLL?" On 11 September my wife, Deanna, and I had the opportunity to go to Shanksville, Pennsylvania for the observance of the crash of United Flight 93 on that terrible day of 9/11 in 2001. Do you remember the words of Todd Beamer, "Let's Roll?" He spoke these to his fellow passengers as they were about to retake the airliner from the suicide attackers before it crashed into the field near that small country town. Being at the crash site on the first anniversary of the event was a powerful and moving experience. A memorial service was conducted following which President and Mrs. Bush came to meet with the families. It was a moving experience just to be there. A few weeks later I was in Sam's Club and purchased a copy of Lisa Beamers new book aptly titled, Let's Roll (coauthored by Ken Abraham and published by Tyndale.) I highly recommend this book for everyone interested in what happened on that flight. I guess this includes just about all Americans and many others too. Lisa gives detailed insights into Todd's character and life which helps us understand what went on that day. She includes much about the other passengers too and how their actions clearly saved America and the world even more trauma in addition to what was already experienced on 9/11. Todd was clearly a man of God. He learned to face issues head-on. He was able to make the corrections in the direction and character of his life as the occasion and leading of God made necessary. He was a man of honor and deep commitment to his Christian faith. He knew what his life was all about. When the ultimate trial to his Godly character was put to the test, he passed with flying colors. It cost him his life. Given the circumstances, Todd would unequivocally say that it was well worth the price, heavy though it was. For Lisa and her young family, she recognizes the clear hand of God in all of this as she quotes from the Bible on page 83 of her book, "Oh, the depth of the riches of wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! 'Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?' 'Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?' For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever! Amen. -Romans 11:33-36. Lisa describes what a great father Todd was to his two boys. "He was always extremely patient with the children…. Even when they were dawdling or dallying, Todd always put a positive spin on his encouragement to the kids. He had a special shrill whistle that he used to get the boys' … attention sometimes. At other times, he'd say, 'Come on guys, … it's time to go. Let's roll!' It was phrase we used a lot around our house." Lisa concludes her book with a story from home: "One day shortly before Christmas, just a few months after Todd's death, I was halfheartedly unpacking some holiday decorations. Evidently I wasn't moving fast enough for David, who was excited to put the stockings up on the fireplace. So he looked at me and, in a playful voice reminiscent of his father, said, 'Come on Mom! Let's roll!' It is well… it is well… with my soul. Are you ready? Okay. Let's roll." I offer this true story as an encouragement to each of us. When life gets us down, when something hard, or even traumatic, comes into our life, remember the events of 9/11. Remember the life and example of Todd Beamer and his family. Remember the others on United Flight 93. Remember the lessons that Todd lived his life for. He knew God, he knew Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He knew the events of 2,000 years ago when the life of the Savior was also snuffed out in an even more traumatic way. Todd knew personally that the life of the Son of God was offered and given for him personally. He accepted this and lived by it. Ask Lisa. Ask his kids. For Todd Beamer, when things got hard and the obstacles to his life were ponderous, the only way was: "Let's Roll!" Now, for you and for me, let's say with words of Lisa Beamer as she concludes her book: Are you ready? Let's roll! God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth 176 Rainbow Drive, #7627 Livingston, TX 77399 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

9/15/02

Message

REFLECTIONS ABOUT SUICIDE A matter that is very important to veterans, especially Viet Nam vets, is that of suicide. When someone takes their own life it’s a traumatic and shattering event for the family and friends who loved the victim. I say victim because I believe it’s an accurate term, even if the person did do it to him or her self. It’s not natural for a person to take one’s own life. It happens as a result of much pain, depression and extremely skewed thinking. There are many official (and unofficial) figures as to how many Viet Nam vets have committed suicide. The dynamics of the Viet Nam war and its effects on those who fought it are well known and dealt with very well elsewhere so we won’t go into it here. Some experts say that more Viet Nam vets have committed suicide than were killed in combat. Others say the number is little more than with the American population as a whole. My belief, based on my experiences as a career Army chaplain, is that the truth lies somewhere between. My opinion is that, whatever the actual figures, the problem is real and is still with us. It is imperative for us as vets and families and friends of vets to be aware of the problem and to care about those who are still traumatized by the war to the extent of committing suicide. I believe that it is especially important for God fearing believers in Jesus Christ to have a profound concern for anyone who is in such a state that he would honestly consider suicide. After all, it was Jesus Christ Himself, our Savior and Lord, who said we must bear one another’s burdens. He also said we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. It is not possible to have a neighbor who is in a suicidal frame of mind and not care enough to reach out to that person. When that person is a veteran who has fought for our freedoms, then I believe the responsibility is even more compelling. For those who care but “don’t know what to do” here is information that can be helpful. I offer these symptoms and danger sign lists for your knowledge in being a sensitive and caring friend for those about you, some of whom may need your insights or help. This information came from Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) at www.save.org: (Experts have discovered that major depression is a primary factor leading to most suicides. Therefore, I am giving you this first list for your knowledge and awareness.) SYMPTOMS OF MAJOR DEPRESSION “Not all people with depression will have all these symptoms or have them to the same degree. If a person has four or more of these symptoms, if nothing can make them go away, and if they last more than two weeks, a doctor or psychiatrist should be consulted. Persistent sad or “empty” mood. Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, pessimistic and or guilty. Substance abuse. Fatigue or loss of interest in ordinary activities, including sex. Disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns. Irritability, increased crying, anxiety and panic attacks. Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions. Thoughts of suicide, suicide plans or attempts. Persistent physical symptoms or pains that do not respond to treatment. DANGER SIGNS OF SUICIDE Talking about suicide. Statements about hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness. Preoccupation with death. Suddenly happier, calmer. Loss of interest in things one cares about. Visiting or calling people one cares about. Making arrangements; setting one’s affairs in order. Giving things away.” The matter of suicide gets very complicated with a lot to be said about it. For the person who is a believer in Jesus Christ as his/her savior, there is even more to be said. But for this brief article I will finish by speaking to a question in the mind of many who know there is a heaven and a hell. A common question asked by them is whether a person who commits suicide can be forgiven or automatically goes to hell because of this act. Considering that his life ends as a result of his action there obviously is no opportunity to ask God for forgiveness. This is certainly true. However, what about the Christian who commits a sin while driving his car and is killed on the spot by a drunk driver who runs a red light and hits him broadside? Clearly, there is more than one way to die suddenly with unconfessed sin in ones life. Remember that judgment is God’s to render, not yours or mine. The condition of the victims heart when he dies is what God judges. Only God knows why the person took his life. Only God knows everything within that heart just as only God knows what’s in your own heart. Although suicide is a terrible act, the state of mind of the victim is in a terrible condition. God knows. God understands. God forgives as He decides, not as man decides. So, is suicide a forgivable sin? Yes, it is a forgivable sin. Thank God, all sins are forgivable by the blood of the Son of God except, as Jesus said, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. And that is another subject. Chaplain Larry Haworth

Date:

8/1/02

Message

DO YOU BELIEVE IN DESTINY? Do you believe in destiny? I was talking with an old friend a couple of days ago. We were reminiscing about how our lives had developed over the years. His life has been very interesting and productive. He's quite satisfied with how things have gone, how his life has developed and matured. He stated, "I think it's been my destiny." I believe destiny means that one's life goes in a direction that can be identified and seen but with no intelligence, power or extra-natural force driving it. I do not agree with this at all. I see destiny as an evasion of the reality that one's life has a purpose, a reason for being, a meaning given from outside itself. This reason for being, this direction, this destiny has a purpose which is not just an impersonal accident, something which just happened. Each life has purpose, reason and meaning. It follows that there has to be a giver of that meaning and purpose. This reality which provides direction for one's life is not just a cosmic accident. It is not just a faceless happening of nature. It is a force or quality built into our being that is given by a personal, intelligent being called God. So I cannot believe in such a thing as mere destiny. We humans are not just an advanced animal form of ape. We are not just a mess of protoplasm that happened to get organized and crawl from primordial slime. We are not just so many chemicals activated by electrical impulses. We are not some sort of naturally selected accident of nature by way of naturalistic evolution. We are beings created in the image of God Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth. We are full of purpose and meaning. Our lives, our footsteps are guided by the Intelligent Designer who made us and gave us that meaning. Our part is to seek out that purpose. This is done by submission to God and his purpose for making us. This can be made plain to the willing eye and heart. This is verified in the Word of God in Proverbs 3:5-6 which says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths." So, how do we gain access to God? That's plain too. The Bible also tells us the answer to that question in the words of Jesus Christ, the Son of God in John 14:6: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." If you want God to guide your life, which I hope you do, just come to him in submission of your will to his through faith in Jesus and God will give you what you need. It isn't always clear ahead of time. I believe, and have experienced, that it usually comes a step at a time. But when our goals are set on God and our eyes are focused on him, it's amazing and satisfying how our lives take on a clarity, direction and meaning that we would never have expected. So, do you believe in destiny? I don't. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth - 1 August 2002 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

6/2/02

Message

GO IT ON YOUR OWN? 

Who of us hasn't thought for himself (or herself) that "I can go it on my own!" "I don't need anyone or anything." Have you ever had that attitude? Be honest. To be honest, I guess I've had that attitude at times. We should admit it's not realistic to think we can go it on our own. No matter how independent or capable we think we are, it's just a fact that we need others. Be honest. On the other hand, I've known a lot of men, and women too, who have the self-knocking attitude that "I can't do nuthin'," "I'm nuthin'," or even the extreme, "I'm worthless." Have you ever said such a thing? Have you ever felt that poorly toward yourself? Let's take a closer look at this. Number one, anybody who thinks he or she can go it completely alone just isn't living in the real world. It's not hard to prove - just look around. Do you refine your own gas (or kerosene if you're boondocking)? Do you knit your own socks or make your own toothbrush? I doubt it. These aren't great examples, but you get the point. Don't you? I'll concede that going it alone, relative to those who lean on everyone for everything, is one way to get by. Not the best, but still a point to ponder and an attitude toward life that many have. Probably because they've been betrayed or messed over in the past. Moving along. As we (me) pointed out, there is another type who might be considered something other than average like the independent ones we discussed. These folks are those who demean themselves with the "I'm nothing" complex. I've run into many, including vets, who feel helpless to confront their life or situation. They feel just overwhelmed. I'll have to say that, given life as they describe it, I can see why they feel that way. I can see why they feel worthless. I can see why they feel like nothing. A big zero. I won't concede that they're right or realistic. But it's true as to how they feel, how they perceive themselves. As an Army man I heard they say in the Navy that perceptions drive the ship. In other words, how someone sees his life is reality as far as how he lives his life is concerned regardless of what's true. Now let's get into deep water. This is going to be where the rubber hits the road. [You say how can the rubber hit the road in deep water? Just a figure of speech. OK?] Keep alert. Don't stop here - this is where it gets good! Ready? I'm telling you now, much to your surprise, that Jesus Christ, himself said that you can't do anything. Actually, the way he put it was that you can do nothing. Now he didn't mean you can't go to the store or drive your car without help But he did say you can do nothing. How he said it was, "Apart from me you can do nothing." That's in quotation marks because that's a direct quote from the Bible, the Word of God. I'll give you the whole context so you can see what Jesus meant. Here it is from the gospel of John 15:1-5 (Jesus is talking): "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned for greater fruitfulness by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me. Yes, I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." See what I mean? So, if you're one of those who think they can do it all on their own, who "don't need nothin' or no one," think again. If your life is going to count for eternity, if your life is going to have purpose, the reason for why you were born, then you're going to have to come to grips with what Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was talking about. He was talking about you as much as me. And if you're one of those who thinks he (or she) is of no account, can't do nuthin', no how, then you're going to have to come to grips with what Jesus was talking about there too. Same as everyone else, except that you might have an advantage. Your self perceptions may be out of whack, but at least you do have a grip on knowing what it is to feel like nothing. And, so far as our life's purpose and eternal values are concerned anyway, we truly are nothing outside of Jesus Christ. However, with Jesus the vine and us the branches, we can do everything. The difference is life in Jesus Christ. Think about it. I suggest you make Jesus the center, the heartbeat, of your life. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth - LEHaworth@aol.com (1 June 2002)

Date:

2/12/02

Message

 A few years ago I had a friend whose name was Norm. He told me a story that I don't expect or even want to ever forget. Norm was a World War II vet. We'd just finished our Veterans Day service where Norm had played his old bugle that he dug out of his old duffel bag. It hadn't been touched in many years (or decades). He'd worked for weeks remembering how to play taps. It meant everything to him to get out that beat-up bugle and practice until he could play taps for the service. We were standing around talking after the service and memories were coming back to Norm that were just as real as yesterday. He told me his story. It took place somewhere in Germany during the closing months of the war in 1945. Norm and his buddy were standing around after things had quieted down a bit. I don't remember what he said his buddy's name was but Norm remembered it clearly. In his mind's eye he could still see his buddy even as he was telling me what happened. They had been just standing there talking face to face, like buddies do. Just relaxing after having seen some action which Norm didn't explain. While they were chatting a bullet shot through the air, creased across Norm's helmet and entered into his buddy's right eye. Of course, his friend was dead before he hit the ground. Norm could see it all even as he was telling me his story, this trauma that happened over half a century ago but which was still very much alive to Norm. And then it became alive to me too. What Norm said then to me I'll also never forget. Norm said, "Chaplain, you're the first person I've ever told that story to." Can you imagine holding something that personal, that precious, that intense and that important all these years? I don't mind telling you I was honored to be the recipient of such a story. It's OK for me to tell it to you because in telling his story, it gave Norm such a sense of release that he went on later to tell it to our vets group a few days later. He also told of what else happened. Other soldiers shot the sniper out of a tree. He was a German boy who looked to be only about fifteen - a powerful and traumatic incident of war. I learned, or relearned, powerful lessons from Norm's story. I learned anew of the love, the bonding that comes between friends, including between soldiers. It is forged through the crucible and trials of combat for the soldier. It is also forged just from the stresses of living and sharing the years and experiences of one's life for us all. Love between friends is a valuable and real possession that must be treated with care and be treasured far above the material possessions that so many prize so highly. A true friend cannot be bought with money. But a true friend is valuable far beyond whatever money can buy. I don't have to prove this point. You know what I mean. I am a most fortunate person as I hope you are too. I have friends that I love greatly. They are of enormous value to me. My life without them would be poorer indeed. I hope, and believe, that I am such a friend to them as they are to me. I hope and trust that they recognize my friendship and love and that I properly recognize theirs. I honestly believe this is so. Therefore, I am not only most fortunate, but I am wealthy beyond measure. May I not forget and may it not take trauma for me to recognize my friends. With many it has happened that our friendships have been tried through stressed times and hard memories. And they may be tried again. That's what the strength of the love of friends is about. The Word of God, the Holy Bible, offers pertinent words on this subject in I John 4:7-11: "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another." Norm was a fortunate man. Certainly, he was not fortunate in losing his buddy in such a horrible way. But he was fortunate in having such a friend that he could not only still remember his name, but could still see him in his mind's eye, even through such a traumatic event. Losing a beloved friend is a hard thing. Not having a beloved friend to lose is harder by far. Now Norm is in heaven too. Thanks, Norm, for being my friend. Thanks, Norm, for sharing your buddy with me. I have learned and I have grown. I hope the same for you. God bless you. God loves you. So do I. Chaplain Larry Haworth - 11thACVVC 1290 W. Monache Ave. Porterville, CA 93257 LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

12/10/01

Message

CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS The Christmas season is such a great time of year. Agreed? When we "ponder" on it it's easy to remember the happiness of gift-giving, family reunions, holiday cheer and even the crass commercialization of the holiday. I recently read an article that got me to contemplating along a different line about the meaning of Christmas. It got me to thinking more about why Jesus came versus why many people thought he came. Do you remember the story of the Magi? They were the wise men from the East who brought the baby Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. These Magi were wealthy and powerful men from a very powerful eastern Empire. They came and actually worshipped this baby. This obeisance (look it up) on the part of these powerful men from the East spoke mightily about who the baby Jesus was. I've been thinking that it also spoke a lot of what many people would come to expect of this baby as he grew up. Now jump ahead about 33 years, give or take a few months. Do you remember the event called the Triumphal Entry? That was when Jesus, toward the end of his life on this earth, rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. In those days when the Roman Empire ruled the western world, if a ruler rode into a conquered city on the back of a donkey it meant he was coming in peace. When Jesus rode in he was coming as the "Prince of Peace" prophesied in the Old Testament. He was coming as the Savior of Humanity. He was bringing in the Kingdom of God. But the people were looking for a king of this world to help get out from under Roman rule. That's a reason they were shouting acclamations and spreading palm branches. These things were done for conquering kings. Of course, they loved Jesus for what he did for them, too, like the miracles and healing people. But, right now we're talking about why he came to begin with. Now, here's what I believe. I believe that, if Jesus had wanted, he could have been made king right then. After all, it was his great popularity with the people that made the religious/political leaders mad and afraid of him. And look at what that would have done for him. I mentioned in the first paragraph that I had read an article that got me to thinking about this. The article was about the great wealth of the Temple in Jerusalem. In 70 AD the Romans, under a general whose name I think was Titus (or Titian), put down the Jewish revolt and destroyed Jerusalem in the process, including the Temple. There's a stone carving on an entrance to the Coliseum in Rome that's still there today. It depicts the gold and precious items from the Temple that the Romans brought into Rome after they destroyed and looted the Temple. I don't remember just how much gold there was, but it was in the tons. There was so much wealth that the Romans re-built a lot of Rome with it, including building the Coliseum from scratch. I could go on and on, but you get the point. The point being that if he'd wanted to Jesus could have taken over the kingdom with its huge wealth for himself. He could have had power beyond imagining. But that's not what he came for. Now, back to the birth of the babe in Bethlehem. He was recognized as the Savior, the Promised Messiah (remember the shepherds?) This happened even while he was still in the manger where he was laid after he was born. Jesus, born of the Virgin Mary, came into this world to bring anyone who would believe and commit to it, entrance into the Kingdom of God, not another kingdom of this world. He wasn't after the gold and power of this world, even when it was at his fingertips. He came for the salvation of our souls, the forgiveness of our sins (including the biggest ones) and eternal life forever, starting in this life and going through death into heaven forever. He offered it then and he offers it now. It's for anyone who will believe and commit to it with all their heart. Your heart, that is. I'll close this off by telling you the words the angel said to the shepherds on that first Christmas night and that have sounded through the ages for all to hear: "I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! The Savior - yes, the Messiah, the Lord - has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the city of David! And this is how you will recognize him: You will find a baby lying in a manger, wrapped snugly in strips of cloth." (Luke 2:10-12 New Living Translation). Chaplain Larry Haworth LEHaworth@aol.com

Date:

10/23/01

Message

BACK INTO RETIREMENT

Date:

08/11/01

Message

WHEN YOU COME INTO MY ROOM