Studying the book of Ecclesiastes can be difficult. If you focus on the word meaningless, then you’re in for a rough ride. Thankfully, the book we’re using is geared to finding meaning, so even when Solomon can get you down, we end on a good note! Today, we talked about finding meaning in work, and how … More Crystal and China
My dad had a gift. He could remember sermons from his young adult years, name the pastor, know the title and passage used. I wish I had a mind like his — I’ll blame learning multiple languages to inhibiting my ability to remember anything in one. It’s a poor excuse, but handy, when I need … More Worth remembering
Youngest son home this weekend, so I took the afternoon off. We did important things, like get car tags and not-so-important things, like shopping and eating at a favorite restaurant. As the afternoon passed, he mentioned he wanted to take a run, so I “offered” to go with him and walk — needed it after … More The sun through the shadows
Have you ever pointed your finger at someone else’s obvious mistakes in order to avoid your own? Well, though I hate to admit it, I’m going to start off this post doing just that, because I get so irritated with the Israelites of the Old Testament. I mean, God had performed some amazing miracles to … More Glory Exchange
If someone asked you today, “Why are you a Christian?” what would you say? If you answered, “I’ve always been a Christian?” then I have a question for you — “Then why did Jesus have to die on the cross?” There is no evidence in Scripture that being born into a Christian home guarantees salvation. … More What’s your redemption story?
I’m sure some of you can say, “been there, done that and have the t-shirt to prove it.” Any time you go to the beach, it doesn’t matter which one, you’re inundated with “The Salt Life” merchandise. The last time we were on vacation, I asked my boys if that was a Christian symbol, but … More The Salt Life
When I was in kindergarten, my teacher, Mrs. Flatt, asked me an important question: “Do you button the buttons before you put on your coat or after?” I mulled that question over in my mind and then, confidently gave my answer: “Before.” “Carol, go and get your coat off the hook,” she told me. I … More Detox
The First Century followers of Jesus faced some hard days. One of their number had been stoned, and after Stephen was killed, it seemed a rage poured out against all who called themselves members of The Way. The book of Acts says a great persecution broke out against the church. Then a moving verse follows: … More The Scattered
Too much of a good thing can wear you down. We’ve had a lot of rain lately in my area of the world, and I’m ready for a reprieve. I say that as I sit in my warm, dry house, protected from the elements. Who am I to complain? My mind moves to others who … More Rain on the Righteous
I have a vivid memory from my childhood, and it’s not a pretty one. While I don’t remember what prompted the outburst, I had a temper-tantrum in my mother’s presence and told her, “I’m tired of being good! It’s too hard!” I was obviously exasperated about something, and my parents’ guidance on good behavior had … More It takes effort
