Author: John Stuart

A pastor friend of mine in Scotland served a little country church in one of the nation's wealthiest areas. Most of his small congregation was made up of successful business people, who had retired to the parish where he ministered. … Read more

Beginning in winter and continuing through until spring, the farmers in the west of Scotland plough their land. The ground is hard, but the farmers are determined to have the soil exposed to the elements, so that it will break … Read more

The other night, I was flicking through the cable television channels, trying to find something to watch. I usually do this after a stressful day, in order to help me wind down. Eventually, I came across The Learning Channel and … Read more

I was a problem child. I can remember one winter's night walking home from my aunt's house in the pouring rain. My mom was busy pushing a pram with the baby, and my other two brothers and sister were toddling … Read more

During my teenage years, alcohol played a heavy role in my life. Coming from the west of Scotland, a young boy felt pressured to drink at an early age. By the time I was sixteen, I was partying every weekend. … Read more

I can remember visiting a geriatric ward, many years ago, which was full of patients who had suffered severe strokes. Most of them were in wheelchairs, and some of them had no idea where they were. I was just a … Read more

Every now and then during my teenage years, in order to get away from the pressures at home, I would go and visit my aunt. She lived in a newly-built community, just outside of Glasgow, called Cumbernauld. I always enjoyed … Read more

In my study at the church, there is a small cardboard box with many little tightly-rolled scrolls of paper in it. Each of these scrolls has an encouraging Bible verse printed on it. From time to time, when I'm looking … Read more

Life is a test, and we take a pop quiz on putting our faith into action each day. On the back of my car is a sign that reads, "Erin Presbyterian … the best wee church in town." I want … Read more

"Just a closer walk with Thee" is one of my favourite hymns. The first verse begins with the words "I am weak, but Thou art strong", taken directly from Paul's second letter to the Corinthian church. I learned the song … Read more