The passing of Michael Jackson reminds me more than ever why I am an evangelist. This will not be a post to illuminate his mistakes (because that is God’s job and one has to look very little to find mine). However, it will touch briefly on his success and remind all the importance of salvation. Since childhood, he was an amazing presence, a tornado of talent and a combination of charisma and charm that the world has rarely seen.
From his humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana to his massive mansions in California and around the Globe; this brother from another mother truly lived the “American Dream.” I have always said: “Those whom come the farthest tend to go the furthest.” Without question, his childhood was not normal, he had a parent that even in striving for perfection never brought the approval from his Father that he desperately desired. Michael’s life and death parallel the passing of Elvis Presley. Both died nearly broke, both died alone at home, both had personal doctors that did more to hurt them than help them. Both needed more of the Great Physician than a primary physician. Both became recluses due to their super stardom and what looked lovely initially became lonely eventually. Both despite world-wide acclaim, power and prestige and having the luxury of living near a local hospital; all human efforts were in vain when they needed saving the most. The irony is both gave so much joy and hope to multiplied millions but died alone.
Michael’s songs “ABC” and “Got To Be There” with the Jackson 5 endeared me to him and his brothers. Born in 1972, I was on the scene for almost of all his ride to super stardom. When his “Off the Wall” album came out he was really catapulted to another level but it was “Thriller” in 1982, that put him at number one for 37 consecutive weeks on the billboard charts and he was truly in a league of his own. My father, Frank Shelton, Sr in 1984, came home from work while employed with the United States Capitol Police and told me and my two siblings that he met Michael Jackson’s promoter during the day. He then had our attention. Dad then told us he gave Michael Jackson’s entourage a VIP tour of Congress and the U.S. Capitol Building. Our eyes were now as big as saucers. Michael’s agent asked my father if he wanted five tickets, dead center in the tenth row of their now lengendary “VICTORY” Tour at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. It was the first time that all the Jackson brothers were reuniting for a tour with Michael since disbanding. Dad, really had us in the palm of his hand now and then he said something that devastated us kids. He said: “My children would love to go to the concert but I have to honor a policy here with the police department that I cannot accept gifts while on the job. It was my honor to tour your distringuished group around the Capitol; but thanks for the gracious offer but we will not be able to attend this week’s concert.”
We almost died when Dad told us that. It was the talk of the town, that Michael Jackson was coming to town and we could have seen him but didn’t. So close, yet so far away. Looking back, Dad honored us by honoring his job and he taught me more by declining those golden tickets by honoring God and the Golden Rule. In 1990, I graduated from Thomas Stone High School and I had such a burden for Michael Jackson that I wrote a letter to NEVERLAND RANCH to his attention praying he would get it. In the letter, I congratulated him on his success and I shared with him that Jesus was the only way to Heaven. Despite my summer internships on Capitol Hill, that I loved and was so blessed to have; I wrote I was willing to forfeit that for the summer and work on his ranch as a hired helper. The Bible says: “The greatest among you are the servants” and I just knew that God would eventually enable me to cross paths with Michael and I daydreamed for months about sharing the love of Jesus with him praying he would accept Christ before it was eternally too late.
Early in life, God began to super-naturally and strategically place people in my life. The Lord gave me a hunger to see souls saved and I had a intense burden for all walks of life to know Christ as Savior. Celebrities always intrigued me but despite their amazing success I knew most resembled a hollow, chocolate Easter Bunny inside (they were empty). In 1991, I almost moved to Hollywood, CA with a desire to start a Bible study for celebrities. God showed me that the answers to life are not found in “Hollywood’s Stars” but “Heaven’s Son (Jesus)!”
This weeks funeral, no doubt will resemble his life - a media circus. One statement that has been repeated a zillion times in the first 24 hours of his passing is something that has haunted me and just doesn’t sit well in my stomach and soul. It has been said: “Michael is gone but his music will live on forever.” That cliche could be said at many funerals but the problem with that more than ever is the coming of the Lord Jesus is closer than ever before. Soon, Christ will split the Sky and “The King of ALL kings” will come in great power, majesty and splendor and retreive those that have followed and loved Him.
When CNN and FOX NEWS showed the helicopter taking the life-less body of the most dynamic entertainer of our generation; it reminded me immediately of OJ’s white surburban dodging cars on the Los Angeles Freeway like he did opponents as a running back in the NFL. It also reminded me of “Air Force One” carrying the remains of our former Commander in Chief, Ronald Reagan for his last flight to California. Much like when those white motorcade of Cadillac’s carried Elvis Presley down the Boulevard bearing his name en route to his final resting place. In case you forgot, death comes to us all. Michael despite his lavish customes, colorful clothes, captivating charisma and credentials, massive mansions and a name known around the Globe, when death called his number he was reduced to being hauled away in a plain, white ambulance. It has been said: “When God gets ready for you - you better be ready for Him.” Without question, Michael was a musical phenomenon and a marketing guru but the verse that danced through my head all day was the Scripture: “What would it profit a man to gain the WHOLE WORLD and LOSE HIS OWN SOUL.” God only knows the heart of Michael Jackson and I pray that the “King of Pop” had a relationship with the “King of Kings.” The world looks at the outside appearance but the Lord looks at the heart. Society craves “titles” but the Savior counts testimonies.
Respectfully, only what is done for Christ will last. The Bible says: “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” When one slips into eternity the Bible is clear that purgatory is not an option. We are either “saved” or “lost.” Michael sang “You Are Not Alone” but tragically, one will be alone for those that die without faith in Jesus. All the gold albums, glittered glove and socks in the world cannot change things once our life is over. Today, my heart is heavy for the entire Jackson Family and they are one of the most gifted musical family’s of all time. Jermaine Jackson said on tv during his remarks: “May Allah always be with Michael.” Sadly, Allah will be no where to be found for those that put their trust in a false god. The answer is not in Allah but Almighty God. Not in Mohammed but the Mighty Messiah and Son of the Living God.
In closing, everyone talks about his “star” never fading. The Bible says in Daniel: “That those whom pointed people to a personal relationship with Jesus while shine forever and ever as the brightest stars.” That is the type of star I want to be. No longer, do I long for a “star” on a street but a shinning star that points people to the Son (who made the stars). No longer content with celebrating the creature but my Creator and Michael’s passing reminds me more than ever why evangelism is crucial, neccessary and needed like never before. For those that miss the Gates of Heaven, community with Christians and a eternal reservation with Jesus; trust me - NO ONE will remember the hit songs from today and yesterday. The Bible calls Hell a “place of torment, a bottom-less pit, a place of darkness, fire and wailing and gnashing of teeth.” Hell will be no joke and no party. We will be isolated, damned and can only concentrate on what “might have been” and could have been if one elected eternal salvation more than ephermal success. If we take one thing from the life of Michael Jackson is that we may take a long look at “The Man in the Mirror” and remember what really matters: Faith, Family, Friends and a Future because of Forgiveness found in God the Father.
This video was aired in mid 1990’s and I recall watching it “LIVE.” In front of 100,000 screaming fans he adorned a jet, power pack and literally “left the building” and flew out. Amazing! When he died this week, he was air lifted in a Los Angeles helicopter to the coroner’s office. The tragic truth is his soul had already been ushered into the Presence of Almighty God. The Bible notes: “To whom much is given, much is required.” God is not impressed with record sales but a relationship. Honestly, I am a fan of Michael’s music and he had a God given gift. Tragically, Michael never found acceptance from his earthly Father but my prayer is that he made peace with the Heavenly Father.
God bless Michael Jackson.
My mom always said: “God looks after good people and dummies.” She said: “Frankie, I don’t know what camp you fall under but God is sure looking after you!” The truth is God loves and looks after all people and those that know me would attest that I am a “glorified goof ball.”
Long ago, I learned that preachers are great at promoting the Lord but often fail at promoting others without feeling threatened. I vowed to the Lord that I would do my best to highlight others along the way and we all shine when our friends do well. Without question, it is a joy to travel the Country and meet some wonderful friends. DAVID EDWARDS is one of those friends that I have been blessed to cross paths with and I hold him in high regard.
Early on in ministry and even today, I always heard: “Do you know Dave Edwards, have you ever booked Dave Edwards, have you done events with Dave Edwards - if not you need to get to know Dave Edwards!” For years, Dave learned from Jay Strack and served on his staff and God used that relationship to open some amazing doors for David. He is hillarious, witty, engaging, relevant and most impressive - REAL. He loves God, lives for the Lord and longs to help folks far from God get connected to the Living Lord.
David and I, ministered two years in a row on “PRAISEFEST CRUISE with a CAUSE” in the Bahamas and he has been a dear friend. He is booked across America and speaks at large outdoor Christian festivals to massive mega-churches but would be the first to tell you that all ministry is “BIG” with a pure heart. This video was taped at First Baptist Church of Woodstock, GA where David every week travels from Oklahoma to Atlanta, GA to minister to their singles. Southern Baptist President, Dr Johnny Hunt is senior pastor of FBC Woodstock.
Tonight, on my radio show “FRANKLY SPEAKING” @ 6:30 PM EST on American Family Radio - 89.7 FM in Richmond, VA you can listen LIVE to my most recent interview with David Edwards. You can listen online world-wide on www.wauq.afr.net and we talk about David dealing with discouragement, humble beginnings and God honoring his desire to travel the Country and see souls impacted for God’s Kingdom. David is first-class and a giant in Gospel preaching circles. Visit www.DaveTown.com and prayerfully consider bringing him in to speak to your group. They will certainly be blessed.
God bless and go with God.
Frank & Dr Ergun Caner - Louisville, KY / June 09
Today is Tuesday, and I just flew home last night from Louisville, Kentucky. From Friday to Monday, June 21, it was my pleasure to attend the annual COSBE - Conference of Southern Baptist Evangelists at the Southern Baptist Convention.
What a joy it was to reunite with God’s great men and women who love the Lord. Our speakers included Dr Johnny Hunt, Dr Ergun Caner, Chuck Colson and many others. What a privilege it was to finally meet Mrs. Joyce Rogers - wife of the late, Dr Adrian Rogers. He was pastor at Bellvue Baptist in Memphis, TN and his radio and tv ministry “LOVE WORTH FINDING” continues to reach multiplied millions. Yes, it is true - “even in death, he still speaks.”
Dr Caner is a blessing to me and many others. He said an awesome statement at the convention that is worth repeating. It is even more meaningful coming from him (a former Muslim) and these tough times we are living in. Dr Caner said: “You will never experience peace until you know the Prince of Peace.” He got a standing ovation and that brother from another mother brought it again this year at the conference.
May we all as Christians live for the Lord like never before. May we display Christ-like love at all times but be bold when we have to because a world is dying and on its way to Hell needs our Hope not hype. We need to preach the whole Gospel not just the “feel good” portions and when the Lord comes or calls us Home may we all be found faithful.
Have a great week and go with God.
www.FrankShelton.com
Dad & President Bush - US Capitol
Franklin Shelton, Sr one more time. Dad despises when I draw attention to him. Then again, “heroes” never like the applause, attention or accolades. However, I don’t believe we should celebrate folks when they are dead but cherish them while they are alive. Holidays in general can cause great anxiety for many folks on many fronts.
I have always hesitated to brag on my parents (not because I wasn’t grateful for them) but I know full well that many friends didn’t have the privilege of having parents like mine. Honestly, I wish every kid in the world could have been raised by my parents. If anything “good” comes out of my life it will be heavily due to God’s great grace and the example of my parents. Previously, I have wrote what Mom means to me and I would like to briefly highlight the influence my father has played in my life. To keep this blog short and sweet I would like to say “outside of Jesus” my father has been my hero, mentor and main reason for some of the blessings God has granted me. From leadership to life, sacrifice and success, character and courage my Dad has taught me more by saying nothing than any human being I have met to date.
My father is humble, honorable and humorous. He loves people and has a gift to connect with folks of all walks of life. He has compassion, is competent and is first class. Dad has more charisma than any politician I have worked for. The irony, for my father it wasn’t to get a vote or donation but just the chance to love on people. His first job was building the now renown Watergate Hotel. He served as a MP in the US Army in Vietnam, and worked 28 years with the United States Capitol Police. During his career, with the USCP he protected SEVEN United States Presidents, interacted with dignitaries, dined with celebrities and has friends in some “high places.” He climbed the ranks by hard work and honoring his colleagues. Dad, retired as Acting Assistant Chief of the US Capitol Police protecting Democracy, dignitaries and the Dome of the Capitol Building. Out of 2,000 sworn officers, he retired as number two on the force.
What makes Dad so endearing is that he reached the top without ever bottoming out. He honored his parents, lived for the Lord and considered others more valuable than himself. Today, he is gracious and loved by many. I always said: “It will be a mini- State Funeral when my father passes.” Dad could be with the most powerful person on the planet one minute and go out of his way to make a destitute child from the inner city feel special just by his presence, hand-shake and smile. His humor is second to none and you felt important being in his presence. Dad opened up the door for me to work on Capitol Hill, and for 17 years it was blast to serve the people of America in various Congressional capacities in the “People’s Building.”
In closing, three things really stand out when I ponder my Dad. First, he knew his “success” was because of Jesus. When Dad gave his heart to the Lord, He wanted folks to see Jesus in his life (not so much by what he said) but how he lived. Secondly, he and my mom married the day after Mom’s 18th birthday and on July 5, 2009, they will celebrate their 40th anniversary. Lastly, he told me by his life and lips that he loved me and because I had his backing, I was never afraid to fail. This has granted me great freedom to risk failing en route to moving forward. Again, if anything substantial comes out of my life it will be because of God’s grace and the principles promoted to me by my parents.
Just today, my Dad bought his dream car - 2009 Corvette, 6 speed with 436 horsepower. I don’t reveal this to brag but we praise the Lord for what He has done in our lives. Today, I am so honored to have my father still alive and I still long to make both he and my Heavenly Father proud. If you see a shiny Corvette pass you by on the interstate - take a good look because it could very well be my dad. My prayer for you is that you will remember that “Good guys can and still finnish first.”
Dad's 2009 Vette
Happy Father’s Day and I love you.
In my last post I shared with you about our recent experience while visiting the Lone Star State. It was our honor to visit the brand new $1.1 BILLION dollar baby of Cowboys owner - Jerry Jones. The three themes that kept ringing in my head like a bell from Baltimore were: “Succcess, Simplicity & Salvation.”
Last post, I talked at length about “Success” and the need for “Salvation.” Today, I would like to touch briefly on the subject of “SIMPLICITY.” You have heard it said: “KISS: Keep It Simple Stupid.” Well, to honor that phrase and if I may quote what Larry King said to his eighth wife and Elizabeth Taylor said to her seventh husband: “I LOVE YOU but I won’t keep you long!” - LOL
During the country concert last weekend at COWBOYS STADIUM, Ruth and I, were really impressed with living legend George Strait. In 1995, I went with my parents to see George - “IN CONCERT,” in Virginia and now a decade and a half later he now is considered “The King of Country.” To his credit, he has amassed 57 NUMBER ONE HITS! Loved by multiplied millions and he actually ministered to me when he walked out on stage at the massive 100,000 venue in down-town Dallas recently to perform.
George Strait walked out wearing his trademark Wrangler blue jeans, a white, ironed dress shirt, Cowboy boots, white Cowboy hat ( I always wanted to wear the white hat), belt buckle and his guitar. What I have learned over the years that those who have it in most cases don’t “flaunt it” and those that don’t do. I admit, even I have failed in this regard. We are all a work in progress. It has been my observation that not only are the “Greats Gracious” but when one has been to the mountain, climbed the corporate ladder, paid your dues, have a few successes under your “country belt” it is apparent that one feels very comfortable in their “own skin.” I also noticed that less is more. When George waltzed out on stage, gave a grin as wide as Texas and his pearly white teeth danced on the jumbo tron I was almost sure that the place was going to erupt. He humbly bowed, the crowd roared and he reminded me and many others that Texas night that we don’t have to be flashy, or even first but be grateful, gracious and genuine.
Ironically, George Strait entered Country Music some three decades wearing a white dress shirt, Wrangler jeans, Cowboy hat and boots, adorned with a belt buckle and his guitar. Nothing more - nothing less. In leadership, politics, business and even ministry, we can easily fall into the trap of being more “show” than substance. We can (intentionally or not) offer hype more than hope. Worse, promote self more than the Savior. Too often in preaching circles, I have seen pastors try to “impress” their flock more than INVEST in them. Secondly, regardless out of insecurity or accidentally - many ministers have tried in vain to show the crowd (congregation) how much they know but failed to reveal how much they care.
Friends, pertaining to the Gospel - “GOOD NEWS” it is indeed a simple message of Salvation. After preaching now for over two decades, I learned long ago that we need to “keep the cookie jar” low enough where even the “little hands” can grasp it and enjoy. Preaching too deep is like speaking in tongues without an interpreter. You are going through the motions but its like riding a bicycle without a chain (only with the congregation in tow). The answer here is not are you following me but is the congregation following you? Pastors constantly talk about “exegesis” but if you fail at execution and helping folks apply it to their daily lives we are failing in the pulpit. We must always keep the “Main thing - the main thing. Those in attendance really don’t long for titles but a living testimony of God’s grace, love and fellowship.
In closing, years ago I heard a wonderful story told by Dr. Robert Schuller of the Crystal Cathedral in California when Evangelist Billy Graham came to speak at his church. Dr Schuller noted: “The car carrying Billy pulled up and I met him on the curb of our church.” Dr Schuller went on to say: “I must admit, I was quite surprised and impressed. Dr Graham came alone with no security detail, press agents, special assistants, and no extra personnel. What impressed me most was the fact that it was just Billy Graham and his Bible.”
That day, Dr Graham got up to preach wearing a nice, white dress shirt, navy blue suit and with Bible in hand and when he smiled the crowd roared and he humbly but boldly preached the Word of God.” Today, all these years later and despite the accolades, accomplishments and applause from folks around the world; it is still just George Strait and his guitar and Billy Graham in his Bible. May we all (regardless of what our vocation in life) be mindful that “success” is found in service to the King but also staying SIMPLE, true and loving what you do and why you do it. Trust me, the crowds will not only love you for it but Christ all the more.
God bless you and go with God.
Visit www.FrankShelton.com
COWBOYS STADIUM - $1.1 Billion
It is always fun to visit Dallas, TX
. We just got home at midnight (last night) and I am feeling this morning like a muffler - EXHAUSTED. It was a wonderful trip and it was great reuniting with family and friends. Ruth’s brothers and sisters live in Irving (just outside of the old COWBOYS Stadium). Baby Andrew was a hit with everyone and he didn’t even cry on his first airplane flight - PRAISE THE LORD!While in town, we were blessed to attend the Inaugural event held at the brand new $1.1 Billion dollar COWBOYS STADIUM that Jerry Jones built. Over 100,000 folks showed up to attend the George Strait, Reba, Blake Shelton & Lee Ann Womack Concert! It was AWESOME and half way through George’s set he had Jerry Jones open the retractable roof and we enjoyed the rest of the show under the Texas stars. It was impressive to say the least.
Two things really hit me during the concert this past Saturday, in Texas while at the new stadium with my bride, Ruth. The TWO themes that kept coming to my mind were both SALVATION and SIMPLICITY. For those that know me, you realize I am not a “hater” but a helper. I try to celebrate other’s success as much as humanly possible. It has been said: “It is a small person who cannot celebrate the success of others without feeling threatened.” Sadly, many in ministry fail this test. Yes, the new COWBOYS STADIUM literally could be tapped the Ninth “Wonder of the World.” For brevity sake, I will talk about SALVATION on this post and “Simplicity” the next.
On one hand, my heart was happy for Jerry Jones to see his “baby” and dream become a reality. Hands down (even as a Redskins fan) I can attest that the new stadium is not only the nicest stadium in the NFL but arguably anywhere in the world. It boasts the largest HD TV in the world, largest roof in the world, largest square footage of any stadium in the world with now the most expensive price tag in the whole wide world. They always do things “BIG” in Texas. Very few human beings can enjoy the type of “success” that Jerry Jones has enjoyed personally and the Dallas Cowboys as an entity professionally. It has been said that the “STAR” in the middle of the field of that legendary team is now worth more than the New York Yankees.
In closing, the reason my heart was both happy and burdened is during the concert all I could think of was that verse: “What would it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” This post is not to be harsh, jealous or even envious at another’s accomplishments. Quite the contrary (during the concert) and it was an indeed an honor to be present at this historic venue and incredible concert. However, as they would often show Jerry Jones on the massive jumbo tron (biggest in the world) I just kept praying privately to God that even Jerry would know Jesus as Savior (if he already doesn’t).
In life, one can be a “success in the world” and still a failure with the Lord. Success begins and ends with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Apparently, Cowboys QB Tony Romo, favorite line is “at the end of the day” during all of his press conferences. He repeats it so frequently that it has become a staple in his interviews and almost laughable by journalists because they mimmick him as he says it so often. However, if I may borrow his quote: “At the end of the day” the fact is we can have success, wealth and prestige and even, technological power but we are still bankrupt and skating on thin ice for those whom don’t know Jesus as Lord & Savior.
This Redskin fan would love to CHEER like never before for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and the entire Dallas Cowboys to get “saved” before its eternally too late. Then and only then, will they really have “home field advantage” with God at the helm. Their logo of the Texas “Star” is known world-wide. Talk about “branding.” However, the answer in life is not found in their big, blue Star but the Son of God (Jesus) who bled red.
Go Cowboys and go God!