Maybe It's Just As Easy As "Walking Across the Room"

I am on the road, so I went to my favorite restaurant Dunkin Donuts for dinner. I sat down with my coffee and muffin and found a discarded USA Today. It just doesn't get any better than this! I started reading and a gentleman at the next table started chating with me. I gave a few short answers hoping to get back to the paper and my muffin, but he persisted.

So with a huff, I gave up and put the paper down. After some small talk, I found out he is about to retire, but has health issues. Internal bleeding that the doctors thought was an ulcer, but after a week of testing still not sure. He got up to leave and I asked if he tried prayer, he said yes and thanked me and walk out.

Suddenly, I felt like I was slapped on the side of the head and had a strong urge to get up and go pray with him. I jumped up and caught him in his truck. I asked his name (it was Robert), and said Robert can I pray with you. He said sure. I prayed for healing and guidance for his doctors. He left with a big smile and I guess I was grinning from ear to ear also. I have never prayed with a complete stranger, let alone in a Dunkin Donuts parking lot, but here's the rest of the story. 

Before I left for dinner I just ordered Bill Hybels "Just Walk Across the Room" for my connect group because I felt like one of my biggest weaknesses is sharing my faith with strangers! Wow, thank you God for that revelation in a Dunkin Donuts parking lot!

A side note: starting Saturday Feb 7th, Tracey and I will be hosting a connect group. As mentioned above the subject is Bill Hybels' "Just Walk Across the Room" It is a 4 week study and the dates are Feb 7th, 28, March 14th and March 28th 6:30 at our house. (3 Blacksmith Ter) You can sign up at Effort Church or if you don't go to Effort you are still welcomed, just email me at kbaxterwilliams@gmail.com

Insights From My First Mission Trip

Recently I journeyed to Jalapa, Guatemala with a group from my local church for my first mission trip. This mission trip was divided into two groups. One would do ministry work such as Vacation Bible School, and provide medical services to the local population and the second group would aid a local church with construction projects. Even though I have trouble assembling toys on Christmas morning, I signed up for the construction team. I did my best to keep my mind clear of preconceived notions of what I would encounter, and arrived open mined to experience whatever God would present to me on this mission trip. I came away with three distinct lessons and hope by sharing them I can positively impact others to take that first step, encourage those who go on a regular basis and give people a glimpse of God's work in Jalapa.

Home in the Japala Dump

First, God revealed to me I had no idea what I was praying about. I like many, thanked God for my abundance. I thanked Him for my food, conveniences, a great home and safe place to live. After all, I knew how others lived. I saw poverty and violence on television, read about it in the paper, heard others talk about it after their mission trips to Africa. Yes, I was thankful, because I knew what doing without was like. Wrong! Until you actually see with your own eyes, families living in a dump, knowing their children have to go out when the trucks arrive to scavenge for food or anything else of value, I promise you do not know poverty. It slapped me in the face and was a real spiritual awakening. It was if all my words before were just meaningless ramblings meant to make me feel better, look at me God, I'm thankful. Now I better understand what I am praying about and my prayers of thanksgiving carry much more meaning.

Children of Jalapa, smiles of hope

Secondly, despite the despair of families living in the dump or on the outskirts in makeshift homes with meager belongings their is hope. Yes God is everywhere, but we have to call on him through
our words and actions and in any situation we put God in there is hope. I did not feel overwhelmed or that our work was pointless. I felt his presence, and could see the hope in the eyes of the people we were serving. This trip taught me no matter the circumstances, forget how bleak things are, do not focus on the size of the challenge, just bring God into the situation, where there is God there is hope!

I'm on the right, Hector in the middle mixing concrete

Finally, be open to experience what God wants you to, not what you think you should experience. Well that's confusing, so I'll try to explain. As I mentioned earlier, I went on this trip with what I thought was an open mind, but I was working construction so my "God moment" of the trip would be construction related, right? Nope, the last night we were there, our praise minister Matt O'Rear asked me to give my testimony on tape. I was going to tell him of this great feat and God sized task we had accomplished on the job site. As he was setting up the camera and sound equipment, I was casually chatting with one of the local men (Hector) who helped us pour a concrete floor. I asked him if he was staying for the church service we were about to have after I gave my awesome testimony. Hector said yes, it was very important for him to praise God and proceeded to tell me his story. Even tough he was a skilled construction worker, he had been unemployed for an extended period. In fact, his own family had even turned and started calling him lazy. He cried out to God the Saturday we arrived and said lord I want to work, please help me find a job! On Monday morning he went out looking for work and saw our vans pull up to the construction site. He asked the local foreman if he needed help and the reply was no. The church only had money to pay two locals to help us and those positions were taken. Hector could speak a little English and as he walked away, he said "have a nice day" to one of our team members. The team member talked to Hector and found out he had extensive experience with concrete and since we were putting in a slab floor agreed to pay Hector out of his own pocket. Hector turned out to be one of our best workers and his contribution to our project cannot be overstated. He was also able to network with other locals and had a painting job lined up when we left and probably more construction work with the church. His eyes were full of pride as he talked about how God had answered his pleas. He had money in his pocket, had paid back a small loan to his uncle and was able to take care of his daughter. Matt came over and said he was ready to tape, I said forget me, you have to tape Hector's story. You see it really wasn't about me and my "God moment" of the trip was another man's testimony.


These few insights only scratch the surface of what I leaned on this trip. It was a life changing experience and I encourage those that go on mission trips on a regular basis to continue going and share you experiences and for those that have never been on a mission trip, what are you waiting for? Not only will you make a difference and bring positive change to a place outside your normal environment, it will positively change you, that I can promise!

Link to Faces of Jalapa video: Faces of Jalapa

One Small Step for Mankind, One Giant Leap for Me (Apologies to the late Neil Armstrong)

I twisted Neil Armstrong’s famous words as he became the first human to step on the moon to reflect my feelings as I prepare to take my first mission trip in a few days. Yes, in just 3 days I’m heading to Jalapa, Guatemala with a group from my home church. I thought if I wrote about what brought me to this point, maybe it would help others take the leap, get outside their comfort zones and proclaim their faith to others, while at the same time learning how different people live and view the world.

After a few church-less years in my twenties and early thirties, I was moved (I believe my mom’s ceaseless prayers were answered) to find a church home and raise my 2 young boys in a positive, Christian environment. I found a great church close to home, connected with the pastor and became a member of Effort Baptist Church in Fluvanna County. Right away, my wife became very active, signing up for small groups and taking Bible classes. I kind of eased into things but soon became as involved as her. As my boys got older my wife began to go on mission trips with them. They picked up trash locally, built access ramps and repaired roofs in North Carolina and even repaired homes after Hurricane Katrina. In the past few years she has gone to Puerto Rico and Guatemala always returning with great stories about what God was doing through the mission groups. I watched all of this and thought it sounded great, I even told myself I need to go on a mission trip.

Every year, in February or so, our church would post the list of places where they would be sending mission teams. And each year I would read the list, pray over it and nothing. Yes God had a plan for me and wanted me to step out, but the time wasn’t right. I mean if I was really called to serve I would feel the spirt leading me, right? Well I started attending Effort in the fall of 1995 and still no mission trip. This year was different though. The list was posted as usual, I looked it over and said that’s it, I’m going and put my finger on Guatemala. Funny thing is, once I made the decision I actually felt moved to go and the apprehension of stepping outside my comfort zone began to fade away and I am filled with excitement, eager to share my faith, work with others, and learn about another culture. I will be taking a notebook and I intend to post about my experience when I return.

So if like me, you are looking for a place to serve, whether it is at your church, a local construction project or a mission trip to another country. Go ahead take the leap, sometimes we are waiting for God to move us when He just wants us to move!

Local Author Reveals Young Jefferson

Living in close proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s birthplace and his Monticello home, many Central Virginians probably think they know the story of Jefferson and how he grew to become a founding father, vice-president, president, founder of the University of Virginia and an all-around brilliant scholar.

Local author Jayne D’Alessandro-Cox was curious about young Jefferson’s childhood and what influences he encountered as he grew up to become one of our nation’s greatest historical figures.  

Much to the author’s surprise, she could find very little on young Jefferson. Most of the books, and historical documents she read went into great detail on Jefferson’s adult life and his many accomplishments, but his younger years were glossed over. That peaked the author’s curiosity even more and that’s when she decided to research and write a book on young Thomas Jefferson.

In Thomas Jefferson-From Boy to Man, Jayne D’Alessandro-Cox illustrates how the interactions of friends, family, mentors and even failed love influenced Jefferson and sheds light on an often neglected part of the Jefferson story. Thoroughly researched, and illustrated with rare photographs, this is a must read for Jefferson history buffs or those just interested in learning more about the history of central Virginia and one of our most beloved founding fathers.

D’Alessandro-Cox will be at the Jefferson Pharmacy’s 5^th anniversary celebration on Thursday March 13^th from 4:30-6:30 for a book signing of Thomas Jefferson-From Boy to Man. Come meet the author and learn more about the man and our historically rich part of Virginia! More information on the book and author can be found here: http://www.jaynedalessandrocox.com/

Hiking Old Rag Mountain

View from the summit

I am almost ashamed to say I have lived in Central Virginia for over 18 years and this past Tuesday (September 24th) was the first time I have hiked Old Rag Mountain. What a jewel we have right here in Virginia! If you are up for a very challenging hike with breathtaking 360 degree views, then the Old Rag Mountain hike is for you.


Old Rag Mountain is located in the Shenandoah National Park and there are several websites that have directions and what to expect when on the trail. I recommend going to the websites and reading about the trail before attempting this challenging hike. Here are two sites I found very helpful: National Park Service and
Hikingupward Old Rag

Alex enjoying the view Ridge Trail

Now for my experience. I went early on a weekday morning with my 19 year old son Alex. We arrived around 8:30 and there were only two other cars in the lot. The ranger station appears to be sparsely attended, so we completed the self pay form and off we went. It is approximately .7 miles from the parking lot to the trail head. At the beginning the trail splits in two. To the left or south is the Ridge Trail and is the most difficult trail. Straight ahead is the fire road which leads to the easier Saddle Trail to the summit and should be used if traveling with children or folks just not ready for a very difficult hike. Alex and I made it a circuit hike going up the Ridge Trail and returning by the Saddle Trail to the Weakley Hollow Fire Road. Let me say the rock scramble at about the 3/4 mark on the Ridge Trail is very difficult. Even though I had read about climbing over some large boulders and thought I was prepared, I was surprised how much upper body strength it took. I came close to asking Alex for a boost a couple of times, but made it up on my own, and with determination and maybe a helping hand from a friend (I do not recommend hiking this alone or with small children), most healthy adults would be able to complete this hike. Once over the boulder field or rock scramble you come to an open area Alex and I called the false summit. We spent 10 minutes here taking pictures and then noticed the trail going up towards a rock formation even higher. We hiked another 10-15 minutes and finally saw a sign that confirmed we had reached the real summit and all I can say about the views is wow! We spent another 20 minutes or so on the real summit before heading back down the Saddle Trail to the Fire Road and on to the parking lot. The total hike was right around 8 miles and took us 4 hrs 46 min, including our stops for picture taking. This was a very fast pace and I recommend allowing some time for a lunch and longer break on the summit.

Panoramic from the summit

Me taking a break on the summit

Alex and I both had hydration packs and power bars and I would recommend these items as minimum. We also took light jackets. The rock scramble has some tight places, so I do not recommend large packs or balky equipment. For the views, make sure you don't just rely on you phone camera and bring a good digital camera to capture the awesome scenery. Our cell phones had no coverage most of the way, so we just left them in airplane mode to save the battery. Finally, we went on a weekday, having read all the horror stories about large crowds on the weekends. We only saw a total of maybe 10 hikers on our journey and found it to be both peaceful and exhilarating. I highly recommend this hike to all my friends especially all my Virginia friends!

Update: Another website was recommended in the comments, I checked it out and it's full of good information on hiking and Old Rag Mountain: Old Rag Mountain Hikes

My Rules for Dieting

As I struggle to lose the 5 lbs I put on during a recent visit to the west country of England, I have reached a sad conclusion. Losing weight is hard and painful. If you see an advertisement or infomercial talking about how easy weight loss is, or that you can enjoy pizza and other favorite foods, turn away, it’s all lies and you will only be frustrated. To cut through the clutter, I have come up with a simple list of rules that if you follow, I will guarantee you will lose weight. Note, I said the list is simple, not easy! Following my plan will be the hardest thing you have ever done regarding diet, but it works!

1.      If it taste good, don’t eat it. (Similar to Jack LaLanne’s “if it taste good spit it out”)

2.      If you feel cranky, lightheaded and hungry most of the day, you are following the plan perfectly.

3.      Brussel sprouts washed, cut into quarters make great snacks.

4.      You can overdo fruit, too much and you might as well eat a bag a candy.

5.      Do not expect support from your friends and family. They will do anything to get you to eat desert with them. My wife said she was with me and the other day she cut a piece of apple pie and started heaping ice cream on it.  I asked what the heck, she answered she needed calcium.

6.      Bacon can be your friend, get it without all the sodium and nitrates.

7.      Eventually just plain water will taste good.

8.      Try to exercise a little each day, preferably in the morning before the dizziness kicks in.

9.      Absolutely no snacking on chips, cookies, health bars or anything else that is not a fruit, vegetable, meat, seafood or grain.

10.  Finally, if you go to bed at night with hunger pains and your mouth waters when you think about the oatmeal you are going to have for breakfast, then you have had a good day.

Now one other drawback to this plan besides the constant hunger, loss of friends and poor work performance, it takes at least 2-3 weeks to see results.  But stick with it, you will see results, the hunger pains will subside and getting comfortably into your jeans again will put all the pain and suffering in the recesses of your mind.

Local Author Pens Devotionals

Lake Monticello resident John Chandler grew up in a time when reading the Bible was intrinsically valued as the path to personal transformation. Heavily influenced by his grandparents and local church John strived to devote part of his day to reading and comprehending the Bible. As demands on his time increased, John experimented with creative ways to continue his Bible study; including, listening to the Bible on tape while commuting to work on his motorcycle. John was facing the challenge of balancing a hectic work and family schedule with his desire to continue a daily diligent study of the Bible. While discussing this with a friend, the friend pointed out that “winning the first battle of the day” would lead to a more disciplined and richer Bible study. That is, to engage in listening conversation with God through the Bible before turning to the inbox, reading the paper, or watching the news each morning. John began to devote his first hour of the day reading and writing notes in the margin of his Bible.

Through disciplined study, John found himself becoming a calmer, clearer and more effective leader. As his personal muscle for the practice developed, so did his ability to lead others to do likewise. Soon John began sharing his reflections from his Old Testament study with other leaders and would often diagram his insights with simple illustrations on the back of a napkin. His wife Mary suggested he should compile these reflections into a book.

After a year of assembling insights, reflections and diagrams, John has published three new books: “Praying the Kings,” “Praying Wisdom” and “Praying the Prophets”. These devotionals were written with a simple premise, reading the Bible expectantly can change your life. The books share nuggets of gold John has found in his study and are intended to help the reader mine their own precious gold nuggets of wisdom that lie just below the surface. The books contain simple illustrations by Jessica Luttrull which can be copied on scratch paper or on the back of a napkin and make it easy for the reader to share insights with coworkers or family members. It is John’s desire to help others “build the muscle” of disciples to listen to God everyday through scripture.

You can meet John, learn more about the books and purchase signed copies at the Jefferson Pharmacy in Fluvanna County on Thursday May 23^rd from 4-6 PM.

(John Chandler is now the author of four books, he is the former pastor of Effort Baptist Church and has been a resident of Fluvanna since 1987)

Virginia Military Institute, A Refreshing Change

Almost two weeks ago, my wife and I took our youngest son to college. This experience turned out to be much different than our trip four years ago with our oldest son to a traditional four year university. Arriving at VMI, I was struck by the lack of U-Haul trailers, roof luggage racks and pick-up trucks overstuffed with all the comforts of home. Parents and new cadets (know as “Rats”) walked to their rooms with the bare essentials, absent were large flat screens, mini refrigerators, microwaves and fancy coffee machines. The Rats even had cell phones taken and locked away in the basement, no Facebook, twitter or texting for the first week!

Then came time for us to say good-bye. All the parents and Rats gathered in the basketball arena where the Rats would be called down by company and assembled on the gym floor. First there were speeches by the Superintendent and senior cadets. The words of the Corps Commander filled me with joy and pride. He eloquently stated how in a time when shortcuts have become the norm, hard work derided and discipline almost non existent our sons and daughters had chosen a much different path. One that was more academically intense, physically challenging and lacking many of the comforts of other four year institutions, but in the end, a choice that will lead to success after graduation from VMI.

My son Alex, 1st from the left

Finally, all the Rats were lined up and the Pipe Band began to play. They marched off as the parents stood and applauded. There were few dry eyes as we strained to catch one last glimpse and give a final wave. What a difference, college freshmen marching off for grueling physical training and demanding academics, instead of their first keg party or endless hours of video games. I still get chills when I watch the march out video and I am reminded how proud I am of my son and the choice he made. I send a heart felt thank you to the faculty and staff of VMI.

Truth, lies and Afghanistan

Shocking article, are our civilian and military leaders letting us down? Seems to be a very credible source.

Why This Spider Will Support VCU This Weekend

To the shock and horror of many Richmond Spider fans, VCU dispatched the Kansas Jayhawks Sunday and advanced to the school’s first Final Four next weekend in Houston. While many Richmond alumni believe VCU’s advance will take away from Richmond’s march to the Sweet 16 and lead to endless, overbearing bragging, I disagree. I see VCU not only representing the university but also the city of Richmond.

I moved to the Richmond area in 9^th grade and immediately fell in love with the city. The rivah, Shockoe Slip, the Fan, Monument Ave, the museums and all the history provided endless opportunities for exploration. Later, when I graduated from Midlothian High School, my brother was already attending VCU. I was drawn to the beauty and small classes UR offered and set off for the west end school.

Throughout my years at UR I spent a lot of time on Franklin St visiting my brother and many friends that attended VCU. I found the Fan to be a great area and actually enjoyed the urban campus. During this time I developed an even greater appreciation for the city. That said, I was still a Spider first and made that clear when attending the heated basketball games between the two schools.

Now the Spiders tournament run has ended and many fear UR’s great season has been overshadowed by VCU’s historic appearance in the Final Four. I don’t believe this is the case.  To me VCU is also representing the city I consider my adopted hometown and fell in love with over 36 years ago. I always tell my boys don’t worry how bright someone else’s light shines; yours can shine just as bright or brighter. UR need not fear the glow coming from VCU, our light will always shine bright. I will forever be a Spider first, but this weekend I’m pulling for VCU and the city of Richmond. Go Rams!