In 1947, the Annual Message of the President of the United States was renamed the “State of the Union” address. This practice goes back to 1790 when President George Washington presented the first of eight annual addresses. Washington issued two addresses in 1790—one on January 8 and another on December 8. Until 1923 the annual address was given in the fall. Starting with Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the address was moved to winter. As we neared the end of the winter months, I felt it … [Read more...]
Things that are free
There are few words that capture the attention of price-conscious shoppers more than the word FREE. Buy-one-get-one-free has its own acronym, BOGO. Even my healthcare provider has gotten into the act, with a “free digital thermometer” when one comes in for a checkup. Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries is not giving away free thermometers. However, we do have some great resources for you and your church that are free. • Pulpit supply. Our leaders and campus pastors are available to … [Read more...]
Theology from a song
“When I’m 64” became a hit when it was included on the “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” album released by The Beatles in 1967. What many do not know is that the song was written by band member Paul McCartney when he was 14 years old. In his lyrics he envisions life 50 years in the future. The famous refrain is, “Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I’m 64?” The Great Commission and Great Commandment give purpose to life. God commissions us to “go and make … [Read more...]
A Christmas at the Baptist Homes
If a tradition can be established in three seasons, my favorite tradition as Baptist Homes president is visiting each campus during December. I enjoy seeing the attractive display of lights and the well-adorned Christmas trees that grace each campus. These lights are a reminder that Jesus, “The true light, which gives light to everyone, has come into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him” (John 1:9-10). My favorite decorations are the nativity scenes that serve … [Read more...]
‘Mind the gap’ for retirement
If you’ve ever been in the United Kingdom, you are likely familiar with the phrase “Mind the Gap.” For those who have not heard this warning in person, as a precautionary measure for subway travelers, a female voice alerts passengers to be alert when they cross the threshold or gap between train and platform. Wouldn’t it be great if a voice would say, “Mind the Gap” when it comes to preparing the final season of our earthly life? According to Forbes, 55% of Americans are or will struggle … [Read more...]
Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries’ special sauce
While growing up, McDonald’s had a promotional campaign for its new Big Mac sandwich. If you could say “Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun” in under 2 seconds, McDonald’s would give you a free Big Mac. I ate well until the promo was cancelled. But what was this special sauce? It turns out that the ingredient that made the Big Mac stand out among the fast-food competition was a sauce similar to Thousand Island dressing. This condiment … [Read more...]
Resolved to serve, educate, advocate
One of the joys of being a part of the Missouri Baptist Convention family of ministries is the partnership we enjoy with the churches. This partnership is exemplified during the board of trustee meetings. Our boards consist of members from our MBC family of churches. At this summer’s Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries board meeting I was privileged to reflect upon the words Paul as recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:57, “Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus … [Read more...]
Pray for the Baptist Homes
The calling to serve Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries is a stewardship rather than a position. As a steward, one has the responsibility to ensure the proper resources are available, and the return is pleasing to the master. The root of the Latin word “resource” surgere, is the same as the word for source. Both mean to “arise.” As Christians, we do well to understand our needed resources arise from the Source. No wonder one of the names of God is “Jehovah-Jireh,” which is … [Read more...]
A view from above
As president, I have the privilege and responsibility to point Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries to where we are going. This is the visionary aspect of leadership I love – and fear – because it means going into the unknown. Baptist Homes founder, Dr. Milford Riggs took a step into the unknown when he rented a home and received the Home’s first residents in 1913. Seven years later, Riggs led the ministry to build the massive structure that is now the Riggs-Scott building of the … [Read more...]
Make your decision before it makes you
It has been said the best time to plant a tree was a generation ago. The second-best time is now. Nobody really likes to think about getting old. However, putting off the conversation is simply delaying a talk that needs to take place. The frustrations and fears associated with aging are not easy to discuss. A study reported by Home Instead Senior Care Network identified the top 10 aging concerns of those 55 and older. Those respondents shared the following anxieties: • Aging Fear #1: … [Read more...]
Gospel informed memory care
As one ages, the inability to recall information is both common and somewhat disconcerting. “Where did the television remote go?” might simply be a frustration. However, it can also be a symptom of something more serious, especially when mom calls you at work claiming, “The plumber stole my remote.” Nagging questions such as “Did dad take his meds?” and “Did mom remember to turn off the stove?” are health and safety issues that cause family and friends to wonder when, and where, should we … [Read more...]
Alphabet soup: Deciphering the senior care options
The plethora of acronyms used by senior care providers can be intimidating at best and perilous at worst. Helping seniors, families and churches navigate the various levels of senior care is one of the services provided by the Baptist Homes. The principal levels of residential care are identified by the abbreviations IL, ALF, ICF and SNF. Independent Living (IL) communities are often designated as residential homes or neighborhoods. IL is the perfect option for the person or couple who … [Read more...]