Psalms 51:10 – “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Several years ago, a friend received the gift of a new heart after decades of failing health. Every year she celebrates her new life and all of those who love her celebrate along with her. We are […]
Our Relationship is with the Giver and not His Gifts
The enemy would love for you to think if you were proficient in using every gift of the Spirit, you’d be more worthy of God’s love. He’d like you to believe that if you were endowed with the intellect and academic understanding of Solomon, then you would hold more influence in God’s kingdom. The enemy’s […]
No Roses But A Greater Sacrifice
This week is the second busiest week for florists, coming in just behind Mothers Day weekend. Roses and bouquets, chocolates, fine wine, dinners out, and other romantic gestures will reign supreme. Even kids will get into the action by giving each other store-bought valentines. It’s Valentines Day! But did you know this day was initially […]
Are Essentials Essentially Holding You Captive?
The night before I was about to head out on a seven-day trip, I began to pack. I chose a small suitcase, as it would comfortably fit on my walker’s seat. It wouldn’t be a problem to transport my gear to the airport check-in counter by myself. Makeup kits, lotions, and potions that are mysterious […]
Running the Actual Race is the Easiest Part
In about six weeks, signs that spring is around the corner will make their appearance long before the last stubborn icy snow patches melt in my city. Athletes and running enthusiasts will emerge from their indoor sports facilities and will once again take to sidewalks, bike paths, and nature trails. Promotional materials will plaster street […]
Leaving Minefields Behind?
Abandoned minefields are hideous legacies strewn across formerly war-torn nations around the world. Although warring factions brokered peace treaties and cease-fires decades ago, these landmines maim or kill hundreds of innocent civilians every year. Weapons meant to keep a particular adversary at bay now lie in wait under rice patties and earthen paths. Each mine […]
But Jesus Remained Silent
Isaiah 53:7 – “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth.” As the middle child in a family with five children, I had my fair […]
Job’s Friends – Silencing the Suffering
When someone close to us is suffering, we suffer as well. As their suffering increases, so does our own. Hence, the temptation grows within us to try to fix them. We often give the three friends of Job a bad rap. Note the word ‘friends’ in the following passage. They knew his family well. They […]
You can Teach an Old Dog new Tricks
Musing of the day: You can teach an old dog new tricks, but only if he is motivated to learn. Many professional musicians continue their careers way into their 70s and 80s. Those who do well are the ones who realize that as they mature, their voice changes. And so, they arrange their musical score […]