Author Archives: escalanteministries.com

Remember the fallen

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We take a moment every year to pause and reflect on those men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
For this moment We honor two types of people: those who gave all and those who never gave in. These men and women who painted the stripes of “Ol’ Glory” with their essence, and their familes who continued to press forward after their loss.  We can honor them by voting, we can honor them in song, or by living our life with a heart of gratitude. America’s sons and daughters fought for our freedom to live free. We must honor them by saying thank you at least. We must put a value on the cause for which they fought and teach the next generation, so they can be prepared if our nation calls.  I have lived near a Naval Base and at sunset the flag would be taken down. When it did, people stopped in silence and gave honor not for the cloth, but for which it stands “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”. The servicemen who render hand salutes  know the cost of freedom. They are reminded of friends lost in conflict and those who still serve.  Today for memorial day, please  remember the fallen , and the reason for this day.

Better Luck Next Time

So I woke up early on my day off to participate in a motorcycle safety riders course.  I had this idea that when I reached the next rank I would buy my motorcycle. I thought of it like a graduation gift to

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myself.
Reality hit me with a big bat of

What If

I have never ridden a motorcycle before. Furthermore, would I want to ride one if I learned how? So off I went. I arrived at the class and learned! As a leader you may have to get out and do something new, especially if you want a different result. Try, even if it may flop, but never be afraid to venture. It is what keeps us going. I believe our Heavenly Father has created us and his DNA can be seen in people every day. This is your moment to unlock your true potential! The potential that God releases over your life for the purposes he has already destined. Venture out!!!
And that’s what I did. I went to the basic riders course. Let me tell you I had a great time. The instructors were very patient with us and I learned the basics. I was given a bike and I was “cool” with my helmet and boots. It was great. Did I pass? No, I didn’t. I didn’t pass because the instructors felt I needed more time with the motorcycle. I agree with them whole heartily…it was my first ride ever. Sometimes we just need to realize we need a little bit more experience.  That’s okay. Remember John Mark (Acts 15:36-41)? Well, Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement about his ability to minister help at one point because Mark had abandoned them before…he needed some more experience. Then, later in Luke 4:11 Paul sends for Mark because he would be very helpful to Paul for the ministry. He flopped before! He flopped in a way that would seem big to us…to the point of running out on his team, but did God count him out? NO, he gave him another opportunity.  You my friend may have flopped before, but don’t stop venturing out…you may have better luck next time!

May 2014 (ministry update)

We just celebrated Mother’s Day with our home church this past weekend. It was a fun time of fellowship and connecting with family and friends. We hit the ground running as Teresa prepared for a talk during the Women’s Tea. a women’s luncheon provided by the church.

I was with the fellas preparing our praise and worship line-up. I was also blessed with an opportunity to speak to the youth ministry and its leaders. Teresa and I were truly blessed by all of our church family. We also were able to enjoy a weekend with my family in Visalia, CA. All in all it was a great vacation.
Teresa is continuing collaborating with the music group “The Crew” recording tracks for their up coming album. Check them out, you’ll be blessed by the lyrics. You can find samples and make purchases at www.thecrew4jc.com
She has been working hard with her team. It is a joy to see what God is doing though her willing heart.

Teresa and I are also pleased to announce the we will be doing another small group bible study. We will be supporting our church family here in Ridgecrest CA,  Beginning the series is entitled: “Freeway” and will encompass the topic of God’s grace. Stay tuned because there will be more progress to come for the glory of God.