Year: 2016

"I can't go to visit people when someone close to them has died." Sometimes, the person who utters words like these might fear crying when visiting sorrowing people. Yet, we can remember that God is with us to teach us how to weep with … Read more

Quite a few years ago, a bulletin from our church had a picture of a graphite illustration by Gerald Folkerts, entitled "Self Portrait". The picture so intrigued me that I kept the bulletin all these years; it was dated Good Friday, March … Read more

The practice and preparation was an arduous and laborious journey to overcome, only to reach the halfway point. Predicated on excellence, the auditions began. The reward of my effort deserved its worth, as I was one of many select vocal … Read more

I've been reading a lot about grace lately, and the more I read, the more I realize how amazing God's grace really is. G – God's R – Riches A – At C – Christ's E – Expense Grace, grace, God's grace, Grace that will cleanse and pardon … Read more

I wonder if, like me, you are vertically challenged. I used to be five feet two inches, not the tallest in the world — and me with six-foot brothers and a mother who was five feet eight inches. Now in my old age, I have shrunk to just … Read more

Over the years, I have visited many people who have that look on their faces: disappointment. It's a blank, hurt look, with no interest in any future possibilities — it's all over for them. It is so sad to see. Does the Bible speak to … Read more

I love the Apostles' Creed. It is a succinct summary of a great many of the beliefs that I hold as a Christian. I call it an "executive summary". Nevertheless, it is obvious that no mention of Jesus' earthly life is made in the Creed … Read more

My collie, Bonnie, is very strong-willed. Perhaps that is all part of what makes her a good livestock dog: she is independent and able to make good decisions when need be. One of the best decisions she makes, however, is to listen and … Read more

These days, a lot is said and written about the irrelevancy of our Christian faith. Some months ago, there was a report in our local paper about a minister of the gospel who had preached for many years and submitted faith-based articles … Read more

When I began in ministry many years ago, I quickly realized that I didn't have enough love for all the people in my congregations. I cried out to God for His love. It was then that I experienced an overwhelming flood of loving care for the … Read more