Year: 1996

My mother used to catch hold of me before I went out on a date, or to a party, or before I went off to start something new. "Michael, now you remember who you are." I think you know what … Read more

She walked out on the stage before 40 children, proudly carrying a small child's chair. After twirling in circles she placed the chair centre stage and with great bravissimo announced "I have faith that this chair will hold me." Then, … Read more

No matter how exhausted life leaves us, when we look expectantly to God in faith, we will surely find solace and strength. Those of us who know Jesus as our Lord and Saviour can add that in Christ we have … Read more

Who do you look like in your family? Whose eyes do you have? Whose ears? Who is responsible for your head of hair or lack of it? We are born with certain characteristics — they come from our parents, sometimes … Read more

When we landed at Port Angeles, Washington by ferry from Victoria, B.C., the clouds hung low over the town and the famed Olympic Mountains were completely invisible. The weather was so poor we really wondered whether it was worth driving … Read more

Ever get the idea that church doesn't matter much? "I go to church," you say. "That's nice" is the answer. Nice, as if you confessed a passion for rhododendrons or let on you spent Sundays breeding Irish setters. Not "nice", … Read more

I left the scarf on the Aberdeen to Glasgow intercity train. I was annoyed, it had sentimental value. A few weeks later I called at the Lost and Found Office in Glasgow, and then in Aberdeen. It wasn't there. I … Read more

In the story of the transfiguration we see, maybe for the briefest of moments, a glimpse of who Jesus is, a truth made obvious to his friends who have come with him. Transfiguration is a personal experience. Have you ever … Read more

I just returned from leading a weekend retreat with 10 members of my youth group. I selected the theme of "Becoming" and chose Romans 12 as the scripture passage. Over the course of the weekend, I was invigorated by the … Read more

Do you know what I heard on the radio last week? An ad for a local funeral chapel, totally serious and in painfully good taste. "When your loved one dies, come and see us about our new Grief Management Program." … Read more