Almost 8 weeks ago, we witnessed one of the most devastating catastrophe’s to ever hit the State of Tennessee and other areas in the region. The flood waters caused major destruction to neighborhoods, schools, businesses and most unfortunately lives were lost as well. In the midst of the brokenness and despair we saw countless acts of compassion and generosity as ordinary people from the local communities stepped up to help their fellow man. We were blessed to partner up with Samaritans Purse to aid in the relief and rebuilding process as well. Just days after the flood hit we were reminded of a song that we wrote almost 12 years ago. It had never been recorded or performed until now. As you watch this video and listen to this song, may you be inspired to help someone in their time of need.

Our Dad has a pretty unique life story. His Mother passed away giving birth to him. He was raised by his Auntie and Uncle who were ministers of a local church in the village of Pago Pago, American Samoa. He didn’t find out that they weren’t his biological parents until well into his teenage years. Although there were other kids raised with him in this loving home, he was the only one to keep the last name. Hence, we have hundreds of cousins, aunts and uncles, but don’t know of any other Katinas.

After leaving the islands to find a job so he could help support his parents back home, Dad joined the U.S. Marines. He went to Vietnam and fought for his country but upon returning home, he found himself fighting his own personal battles. He was broken down emotionally, struggling with alcoholism, and became very abusive. The only good thing about his life during that time was our Mom. But because he was so messed up, they were on the brink of divorce.

Thankfully we had an Uncle name Jesse who would come over to our house and share the love of Jesus. No matter how cold and hard-hearted Dad was, Uncle Jesse kept coming. Eventually, he received Jesus into his heart and the rest is history. After becoming a follower of Christ, Dad turned into a student of the Word. I remember him always carrying around note cards in the front pocket of his shirt so he could memorize scripture throughout the day. He started having Bible studies in our home and there was always someone he was witnessing to. A few months ago I met a lady who told me that Dad led her and her husband to Jesus. Thirty-five years later, she, her children and grandchildren are some of the key leaders in their church. Praise God!

As we celebrate “Father’s Day” this weekend, we want to honor our Dad, Uncle Jesse (who is now with the Lord), and so many other men who’ve helped us in the process of becoming men ourselves. Someone said, “To be a man, you’ve gotta see a man”! We, the Katinas wouldn’t be here if it had not been for some faithful, non-compromising, trustworthy, loving men in our lives who’ve helped us and at times, carried us along the way. There are too many to mention, but you and God know who you are. Our hope is that we will be men that our kids will write about someday. Preferably their stories will be ones of endearment and encouraging to the readers. But until then, we have much work to do. Wives to serve, children to raise, games to attend, songs to write, nations to reach and people to love.

Happy Father’s Day!

Sam, James, John, Jesse and Joe

Have you ever felt like you’re constantly going and never getting there? Do you tell yourself, “If I could just get that, or finish this, then I can rest”? I’m a “check list” kind of guy. But somehow, the lists never end. The more I accomplish, the more there is to be done. Just when I feel like the task is complete, another assignment pops up. I’m so thankful for my wife. She is constantly balancing me and challenging me to make sure that my “achiever” theme doesn’t keep me from pursuing what really matters.

I know, it’s pretty elementary, but things cannot replace God! They never have, they never will! We live in a world where people are constantly trying to fill a vacuum in their souls that can only be satisfied by Jesus Christ himself. Our careers, relationships, possessions, accomplishments, can be good things. But at the end of the day, they will never complete us. My Pastor Tim Johnson often said, “It’s okay to have things, as long as things don’t have you”!

Psalm 42:1-2 “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.”

The deer isn’t satisfied by a sip or cup of water. No, they’re always looking for “STREAMS”! We must pursue God in that same manner. He wants to quench us with His WORD! He has streams of joy, peace, patience, wisdom, divine direction, power, humility that are waiting for us to drink from. It is a proven physical fact that many of us turn to food to fill a hunger when really we are just dehydrated and need water. Don’t ware your soul out by chasing vanity when what you really need is to drink from God’s word!

Our soul’s thirst for God, the “Living God”! There are many gods. Whatever you think about the most, is your god. Whatever occupies most of your time might be your god. However, there is only one true GOD! His name is Jesus! Seek Him and you will find him. Pursue Him! Run hard after Him! He will satisfy and quench the deep hunger of your soul. He is not hiding from you. He longs to be with you. If you’re a “check list” person, make certain that He is at the top of your list and keep Him there everyday!

Pursuing Him,

Joe