Photo from last year’s melodrama production of “Beauty and the Bull” featuring Levi Fairchild and Alissa Cook. Submitted photo.
Bouron County Community Theatre is holding auditions for the world premiere of the melodrama “The Railroad is a Comin’ or Scam I Am’’ written by BCCT Vice President Mark Bergmann. Auditions are from 6:30-8 p.m. on Apr. 21 or 22 at Ellis Performing Arts Center at Fort Scott Community College. Auditioners need only attend one night. Those interested in a singing part should bring a prepared 16-32 bar cut of a song to audition with.
Rehearsals are in the evenings during May. Performances are during Good Ol’ Days on June 5 &6 at 123 S. National. Tickets for the show are $5 at bcct.ludus.com or at the door, but seating is limited.
The show is directed by Bergmann. Please contact him at 620-238-0746 with any questions.
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2026 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The increasingly popular annual award program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make on the Kansas economy and on their local communities.
During the event, Commerce also will announce the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence, the 2026 Governor’s Exporter of the Year, The Randi Tveitaraas Jack International Business Award and two new inductees of the Kansas Business Hall of Fame. This year’s gala will be held Oct. 8 at the Fiorella’s Event Space in Overland Park.
“Kansas businesses are fueling real economic growth — creating jobs, opening new markets, and building communities worth investing in and calling home,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Our state’s continued economic success isn’t possible without them, and To The Stars is the highlight of my year because it puts a spotlight on the companies and individuals leading the charge. Nominate the businesses that are moving Kansas forward — they’ve earned it.”
Companies, organizations and individuals can be nominated in the following award categories:
AgriBusiness – Companies that stand out in the agribusiness industry – including agricultural production, agri-tourism or products and services
Apprenticeship Champion – Companies and other entities that excel in providing registered apprenticeship programs in Kansas
Business Innovation – Companies from any sector incorporating innovative technologies in their business
Healthcare/Nonprofit – Noteworthy services provided by either healthcare facilities or nonprofit organizations
Main Street Momentum – Businesses revitalizing main streets or neighborhood commercial districts through growth or engagement
Manufacturing/Distribution – Outstanding achievement for companies of all sizes involved in manufacturing and distribution
Non-Traditional Talent Pools – Companies that have gone above and beyond to hire those with prior involvement in the justice system, youth, seniors or individuals with disabilities
Small Business Champion – Corporate Partner Award – Honors one corporation statewide that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to small business growth in Kansas through investment and partnerships
Under 30 Entrepreneur – Young entrepreneurs, under the age of 30, who are achieving business success
Welcome Back – Entrepreneurs and businesspeople who once left Kansas but have returned to make their mark in the Sunflower State
“Businesses are investing in Kansas at unprecedented levels statewide — and small businesses play a leading role in how our communities are growing and building for the future,” Commerce Deputy Secretary Joshua Jefferson said. “It’s local businesses that keep our state attractive and vibrant, and their momentum sets the stage for even more business wins throughout Kansas.”
Award nominations will be accepted until Monday, June 15. To learn more, view past winners and submit nominations, click here.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce:
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Monday vetoed House Bill 2346.
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2346:
“Kansas already has a fund dedicated to attracting sports related activities to Kansas. If the Legislature wants to direct a portion of those funds to local communities for sports attraction they should do so.”
“Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto House Bill 2346.”
Governor Kelly Allows
Substitute for House Bill 2018 to
Become Law Without Signature
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has allowed Substitute for House Bill 2018 to become law without her signature.
The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing Substitute for House Bill 2018 to become law without her signature:
“This bill is born out of a tension between two fundamental rights: the right to freely practice religion and the right to freedom of expression. This type of tension is not uncommon in a democracy that has enumerated as many constitutional rights as we enjoy and seek to protect today.
“However, I am concerned that this legislation addresses this tension in a manner that prioritizes one of these rights over the other, and will result in costly litigation.”
Gabriella Basso, 17, is an international student attending Uniontown High School this school year.
She is from Garibaldi, a municipality in Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil, with an area of approximately 35,000 people. Uniontown has around 300 people.
“I learned about the exchange program through my sister, who also participated in one during the 2022–2023 school year. She originally found out about it on YouTube, and after hearing about her experience, I became really interested in doing the same,” Gabi said.
Her first experience in America was visiting Walt Disney World when she was young.
Gabi at Disney World when she was a child. Submitted photo.
“At that time, everything felt very big and exciting,” she said. “Later on, through movies and social media, I imagined American high schools as having a lot of school spirit and opportunities. When I finally came as an exchange student, I realized many of those impressions were true, especially the size of the schools and how involved students are in activities.”
“While living here, I’ve learned that sports are a big part of student life, and many people are very involved in school activities. I also noticed how important cars are for daily life, since most people rely on them to get around. Another thing that stood out to me is the strong sense of pride people have in their schools and colleges, as well as the sense of community in many towns.”
Learning all the differences in everyday English and adapting to a new culture have been the biggest challenges for her, she said.
“Even though I studied English before coming, it was still difficult at first to understand everything and express myself the way I wanted. Being away from my family and adjusting to a different routine was also challenging, but it helped me grow a lot as a person.”
“Here in the U.S., I’ve had the opportunity to take classes that are not usually offered in the same way in Brazil, especially as separate, specialized subjects. For example, I’ve taken Human Anatomy & Physiology, FACS (Family and Consumer Sciences), and Agriculture classes. These types of courses are more hands-on and focused on specific skills or career areas, which makes them very different from what I would typically experience in Brazil.”
“American high schools are quite different from schools in Brazil. Here, students have more flexibility to choose their classes and schedules, while in Brazil the curriculum is more fixed.”
“There is also a much bigger focus on extracurricular activities, like sports and clubs, which are a central part of student life. In addition, American schools often have a strong sense of school spirit, which is something I found really interesting.”
The hosting family
She is being hosted by the Chris and Lael Woods family.
“We have enjoyed hosting Gabriella,” said Lael Woods. “Not only is she a sweet, kind-hearted, and fun person, but it has been fun learning about her culture and seeing her experience life as an American teenager. She has been busy learning all the sports and participating in AG and art classes, along with earning a 4.0 GPA.”
“We have a sophomore daughter, Makiah, who is also involved in many activities, so it has packed this year to the brim with fun.”
“Gabi is a Junior. She arrived a week before school started this year, on August 12th. She will leave at the end of May, two weeks after school is out.”
“While she is here, our obligation as her host family is to provide three meals a day and transportation.”
“We have encouraged her to participate in as many activities as she wanted to explore and she has taken that advice to heart! We’ve supported all those endeavors, however, her family pays for any of the expenses that come from her extracurricular activities, like equipment and clothing.”
About the organization that brought Gabi to Uniontown
“Gabi has tried a lot of new activities – sports, art, clubs….everything,” said Janice Rake, with the sponsoring organization, the Pan American Foundation, that matched Gabi with her host family. “Right now, we are working to place many wonderful students for the upcoming school year. They are eager to experience American culture and share their culture—but without a host family, that opportunity is not possible. Families who do host often describe it as a life-changing experience, forming lasting relationships and gaining a global perspective right from their home.”
The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.
Bourbon County Planning Committee Agenda for Wednesday April 15th, 2026
1. Pledge
2. Roll
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Approval of minutes from February 11th and April 1st
5. Review Comprehensive Plan RFP submissions with Mel
6. New Business
7. Public Comment
8. Next Meeting and Agenda
9. Adjournment
The 2026 regular legislative session in Kansas has now come to an end and I am happy to say that Benny’s Bill is now Benny’s Law. Those of you who are regular followers of the local news in Southeast Kansas are more than likely familiar of the story of Benny Cannon who now suffers from permanent disability due to the negligence of daycare workers. The persons who were found to be responsible for that incident received very light sentences considering the severity suffered by Benny and his family. This new law elevates child endangerment charges from a misdemeanor to a felony if the victim is under the age of six.
Another crime and sentencing related bill that I sponsored along with other legislators this year is HB 2444 which provides among other things that jail credit when consecutive sentences are imposed shall not apply to more than one case, The Governor signed it into law on April 6th.
The Pharmacy Benefit Manager bill that regulates the middlemen who operate between drug manufacturers and local pharmacies has been signed into law by Governor Kelly. This was much needed regulation which puts limits on what is virtually a monopoly.
On the subject of property tax relief we voted on HCR 5008 which would allow for a constitutional amendment allowing legislative limits on property valuations. The resolution did not pass and I was a no vote because I don’t believe that if enacted that it would have been effective in lowering property tax.
That’s just about it for now. I would like to invite anyone who is interested to come out to Galesburg Community Center on Monday the 20th of April at 6:30 PM for my Legislative Update. I will have some other events in the future so be sure to check your local papers or my page on Facebook page for updates. Ad Astra Per Aspera.
VI. Approval of Minutes: 03.31.26 & 04.06.26 (Page 1)
VII. Approval of Accounts Payable: $445,485.34 (Page 1)
VIII. Approval of Tax Corrections (Page 1)
IX. Approval of February 2026 Financials (Page 1)
X. Public Comments (Page 1)
XI. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(4) – Motley (Page 1)
XII. Stronghold: Project Update (Page 1)
XIII. Emergency Services Sales Tax Oversight Committee: Motley (Page 1)
XIV. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Job Performance – Allen (Page 1)
XV. Department Updates (Page 1)
a. Payroll – Motley Sponsoring Walker
b. Accounts Payable – Motley Sponsoring Walker
c. Lora Holdridge
XVI. Old Business (Page 1)
a. SEK Juvenile Detention Center Termination Letter
b. Auction – Allen
c. Special Improvement District – Motley
XVII. New Business (Page 1)
a. NRP Participation – Approval of Chairman Signature
b. Meeting Resolution – Milburn
c. KCCA Membership
XVIII. Commission Comments (Page 1)
XIX. Future Agenda Topics (Page 1)
XX. Adjournment (Page 1)
Information Packet Detailed Summary
March 31, 2026 – Special Meeting Minutes Summary (Pages 2-3)
Excavator Purchase & Financing: The Commission discussed financing for a new excavator. While there was interest in an RFP for local bank financing, the board ultimately voted 3-1 to proceed with a 4.99% interest rate and sign the purchase contract to avoid delays and rising repair costs on existing equipment.
Budgeting Concerns: Commissioner Milburn-Kee expressed concerns regarding proper budgeting procedures and the need for a formal purchasing policy for future large acquisitions.
April 6, 2026 – Regular Meeting Minutes Summary (Pages 4-8)
Financial Approvals: The board approved accounts payable totaling $104,217.64. This included discussions on IT budget miscategorizations for electrical work and phone updates.
Elections Update: County Clerk Susan Walker announced filing deadlines (June 1st) and primary dates (August 4th) for upcoming commissioner and township positions.
Internal Controls: A detailed accounts payable process was presented to strengthen internal controls, including a request for commissioners to sign reviewed vouchers.
Sheriff’s Department Audit: Public comment was received regarding discrepancies in past sheriff’s department audits. There was a suggestion to include the department in future external audit scopes.
Sewer Code Enforcement: Discussions continued regarding the difficulty of enforcing current sewer codes. A new, more stringent code is being reviewed, though staffing for enforcement remains a challenge.
Basement Cleanup & Surplus Property: Plans were discussed to clean up clutter in the courthouse basement. Department heads will be asked to mark any items they wish to keep before the rest is disposed of or auctioned.
Juvenile Detention Contract: The commission reviewed a drafted termination letter for the SEK Juvenile Detention Center contract. Withdrawal would be effective January 1, 2027.
Financial Reports & Open Invoices (Pages 9-14)
Invoice Summaries: The packet includes a line-item breakdown of open invoices by department, covering the General Fund, Appraisers, Elections, Landfill, and Sheriff/Correctional services.
Department Totals: Notable totals include $15,651.73 for Landfill operations and significant payroll clearing entries across multiple funds.
Revenue and Expense Tracking: Detailed reports as of February 28, 2026, show YTD budget remaining for departments such as the County Attorney, Register of Deeds, and Courthouse Maintenance.
A meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.
In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Deputy Chief Mike Miles/FSFD, Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Mary Wyatt/Planning, Housing & Business Development Director, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspections LLC, Daniel Wilson/Owner-Repair Guy, Alex Swank, Kathy Dancer, and Jess Milburn/JCM Restoration.
SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the Amended agenda as presented. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consent Agenda
– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1405-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of
March 11, 2026 – April 12, 2026 – $763,783.28
– Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of March 17, 2026
– Request to Pay – Application No. 1 – Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking, Inc. – Davis Lift Station – Mobilization Costs for Bond Expenses and Materials – $28,596.00
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Public Comment – No comments
Appearances
Alex Swank – addressed the Commission to purchase a parcel owned by the City at approximately 101 Clark. Leasing option was discussed because the City maintains it will not sell property.
MOTION: DANCER moved to open the process to solicit bids for a (5) year lease with the stipulation to include something to legally cover any liability.
FARMER added a point of reference that even though the motion is made, nothing happens until it’s written, the Commission has seen it, (the winning bidder) sees it, and it’s signed.
BUCHTA seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.
VAN HOECKE voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
ACTION: FARMER will write the lease document.
Kathy Dancer – addressed the Commission to inform them that the tasks placed upon the CLG board will require a budget and she is requesting they consider that in the upcoming 2027 budget planning. The FSHRPC is exploring grants but the ordinance that was approved did include the establishment of a Preservation Fund and briefly explained how that money would be used. DANCER also stated the fine frequencies outlined in the approved ordinance. Currently in the enforcement section, the wording only addresses the demolition of a building or does any kind of improvements without getting the proper permitting and proper approvals, then it’s enforceable. She does not see provisions to enforce outside of that. Also, the wording is incorrect. It was approved as per week but the ordinance states per day. She explained that violations demolition by neglect, gross neglect of a building or safety hazards are a different category and are not in the current ordinance. She asked the Commission to revisit that and the frequency of fining, with safety issues being of the greatest concern.
Discussion was had about the fining process as it relates to enforcement through the municipal court and addressing additional definitions to be included in the ordinance.
KRUGER stated that anything that is going to be enforced must be paired with a K.S.A. and the state sets the fine schedule per class of crime, the maximums and the minimums. He stated that Class B Misdemeanor does not go up to $1000.00, the maximum is $500.00 and the minimum is $50.00. Currently no fine amount is put on a citation only a Notice to Appear (in court) and the prosecutor will set the fine amount. He explained how the multiple (day to week) fines currently work in our municipal court and what is able to be fined and what is not.
Executive Session:
MOTION: DANCER moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters of non-elected personnel pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, City Attorney and City Manager. The open meeting will resume in the City Commission Room at 6:43PM. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION:DANCER moved to come out of Executive Session. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Unfinished Business
Consideration of Ordinance No. 3799-Contractor License –Tabled from March 17, 2026
Discussion was had about the implementation of contractor licenses. BUCHTA read a letter she received from Tim Barasa/General Contractor and Licensed Realtor.
WILSON/Owner of Repair Guy addressed the Commission to inform them that he is in favor of a licensing program but has concerns about the contractor board that is being considered and where the money collected for licenses will go and suggested background checks for community safety.
BUCHTA read a text message she received from another contractor (who wanted to remain anonymous) regarding the licensing.
Further discussion was had on the intent of the license to protect citizens and support all local businesses and whether the Commission is in agreement with the proposed ordinance.
MOTION: BUCHTA moved to table the ordinance.
VAN HOECKE requested to amend BUCHTA’S motion to have the ordinance returned to the table at the second meeting of July with a work session prior to that meeting to include all contractors.
VAN HOECKE seconded (the original motion with amendment).
The City Clerk verified that BUCHTA’S motion was as follows:
MOTION: BUCHTA moved to table Ordinance No. 3799 until the second meeting of July. VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
ACTION: FARMER will draft an ordinance for the interim to enforce that contractors must show proof of insurance when applying for a permit with the Codes office.
DANCER left the meeting at 7:20PM
New Business
Action Items:
Consideration of Ordinance No. 3798 – Disband Design Review Board
DILLON requested by ordinance that the Commission dissolve the Design Review Board since the City has received its CLG status.
MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Ordinance No. 3798 to Disband the Design Review Board. SALSBURY seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS and SALSBURY voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no. DANCER was not present for the vote.
MOTION CARRIED 3-1.
Consideration to Approve Sale of Fire Truck
MILES requested the approval of the Commission to advertise and sell the 1997 (E-One-American Eagle Top Mount Custom Pumper) Fire Truck which is no longer in service and has been replaced with the newly purchase truck. MATKIN stated the proceeds will be placed in a fire department equipment fund.
DANCER returned to the meeting at 7:23PM
MILES stated that the new engine is at Station One and the Pierce was moved over to Station Two and explained the plan to avoid wear and tear.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to allow the fire department to advertise and sell the 1997 fire truck without equipment with the understanding that the funds will go into a fire equipment fund and report the proceeds to the City Manager who will report it to the Commission.
MILES added that the proceeds are being earmarked for extrication equipment.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration to Approve Purchase of Pumps, Control Panel and Guide Rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations – $25,860.00
LEMKE stated that over the past (3) years they have been working on improvements for lift stations. This year, Williamsburg (on Tiffany Land) and White Grill Lift Stations (215th and Hwy 54) were selected. Williamsburg’s control panel is approximately (20) years old and the components are getting harder to find. It currently has one pump that is non-operational. The White Grill station has been underwater several times including the control panel. Currently one of the pumps is bypassing and not pumping water. He is requesting permission to replace the control panels and the pumps for both stations using Haynes Equipment for the price of $25,860.00. Grainger’s quote did not include guide rails and the third contact could only offer a complete lift station which is not needed. The work will be done in house, however Haynes has included a one-day startup time if they need assistance. MATKIN stated it will come from the Wastewater Fund.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the purchase of pumps, control panels and guide rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations from Haynes Equipment for a total of $25,860.00. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration of Bids for Repair of Retaining Walls at Gunn Park
MATKIN stated there were (2) bids received with the lowest bid coming in at $66,000.00 from JCM Restoration which he is recommending for approval.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the bid from JCM Restoration for $66,000.00 for repairing the retaining wall at Gunn Park. BUCHTA seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration to Extend Hay Rights for (3) Years
MATKIN stated that currently the invitation for bids is for a (1) year awarded contract. He would like to extend that to a (3) year contract beginning with this year’s invitation to bid for Hay Rights at the airport.
MOTION: BUCHTA moved to approve the extension of the hay rights to (3) years at the next bid opportunity. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Reports and Comments
City Engineer:
– Davis Lift Station update – Vanessa is supervisor until lift station work, then Gary
– Wall Street – CCLIP update
VAN HOECKE left the meeting at 7:49PM and immediately returned.
– Horton asphalt update
ACTION: DICKMAN will follow up with Heck & Wicker
City Attorney: No Comment
City Manager:
– 8th & Eddy is complete and open
– Groundwork for outdoor fitness park at BRCC
– New Clubhouse Manager at Woodland Hills Golf Course and new tee time system that allows everything, including score keeping by your phone-including POS system.
– Moody Building – owner waiting on title report
– Airport hangar lease – Geoffrey Marr
– Timken building update
– Valu building is sold – cannot disclose information yet
– IT Department at next meeting for update
– Public Works update first meeting in May
– April 16 – City/County Meeting at 6:00PM
– Natalia hired to work with Rachel Carpenter on Public Information
Commissioner Van Hoecke:
– Dragoons Baseball season tickets
– Keep military and first responders in prayers
Commissioner Buchta:
– 8th & Eddy
– Salsbury with KDOT
Commissioner Dancer:
– Non-residential residents situation
ACTION: WORK SESSION – May 5 – Homeless situation
WORK SESSION – May 19 – Contractor licenses
Commissioner Wells:
– Barber Shop (118 E. Wall St.) update
ACTION: Barber Shop on next agenda (April 21)
– Skubitz Plaza meeting at 1:30PM
– Federal government cuts
Commissioner Salsbury:
– Code review sent to MATKIN for Commission action
ACTION: MATKIN will distribute to all Commissioners
– 8th & Eddy intersection open
Adjourn
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:27PM. BUCHTA seconded.
I have many fond memories of canoeing in Southwest Missouri during the first six years of our marriage. Jimmy and I would spend time alone or with friends/family floating the various rivers in the “Show-Me” State. These float-trip experiences varied, depending on how much rain the area had recently received. Jimmy would sit in the back of the canoe and I would be in the front. It took teamwork to navigate through the big rocks with the water gushing around them. From the back, my husband would scrutinize the situation ahead and say, “Go right,” etc. Although I couldn’t see him, I knew he was back there giving proper directions and doing his part to get us through safely.
As a country girl, I drank water from the hose, licked the new part of a salt block, ran barefooted on gravel, ate pickled pig’s feet, and drank cold well water from Aunt Pauline’s community dipper. I’d say I had a pretty strong constitution. Part of canoeing involves eating snacks along the way and my favorite was Vienna sausages (where I come from it’s pronounced VI-eenie). Once, with friends Leon and Linda floating behind us, I pulled out my can, opened it and, one by one, I would hold the tasty treat down in the river to rinse off the gelatin before I ate it. Leon was completely flabbergasted and, with eyes the size of saucers, said, “Don’t you know there’s cattle upstream?!”
There are times when believers feel like we’re up a creek without a paddle. But that’s never true. We’re to live by faith, not by our fickle feelings. We can’t trust feelings because they’re up one day and down the next — but we can always trust God and choose to hope. “God is my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1 NIV). God’s not fickle. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever – so that means He’s always with us, even when the lying devil tempts us to think we’re all alone.
Sometimes, when there’s a storm brewing and headed our way, we may feel like we’re up a creek without a paddle. But that’s when we simply hold on and trust Jesus to put His hands over ours as we keep paddling along. We can’t see Him but we know He’s doing His part. When we give Him the right of way, Jesus will get us safely through the storm. No one is going to capsize, lose everything, and drown on His watch. No sir!
“Have no fear, for I am with you; do not be looking about in trouble, for I am your God; I will give you strength, yes, I will be your helper; yes, my true right hand will be your support” (Isaiah 41:10 BBE). So, when you’re in trouble, don’t throw away your paddle! Once on a float trip with our church group, one of the guys got so angry (because he and his wife had to pick up their canoe and carry it a lot) he threw his paddle onto the rocks! It was kinda’ like when Moses smashed the first set of Ten Commandments. We have to give God something to work with – don’t throw in the paddle – don’t give up!
Canoeing is comparable to our journey of life. Some parts of the river are smooth and relaxing and some are rough and nerve-racking. No matter the circumstances, Jesus is with us. “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NLT). Jesus will be with His followers to the end of “their” age and then throughout all eternity. Although I’ve got rhythm, I never learned to dance or do cartwheels, but this red-letter scripture promise makes me want to do both!
The Key: Believers need to keep their chin up and keep paddling. It’ll be worth it.
