Dealing with the Bad Times

We moved to a new ministry in 2008 and put our house on the market.  We had high expectations until the housing bubble burst that year.  For two years we could not sell the house no matter what we tried or how much we cut the price.  It was hard, and it was scary. One … Continue reading Dealing with the Bad Times

Are You Surprised?

Are you surprised? It seems like there have been many people surprised by many things of late.  The election surprised quite a few.  How football teams have performed has surprised many.  Many have been surprised by the weather, certain people facing possible legal penalties, and steadily rising prices to name a few. Benjamin Franklin is … Continue reading Are You Surprised?

You Can Be a Good Citizen

As I write these thoughts, the national election has not yet happened.  I do not know what the outcome will be, but I am concerned about what will happen – between neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family. I believe that it is important to utilize the freedom we have to vote.  And for Christians, I believe … Continue reading You Can Be a Good Citizen

When You Feel Lost…

Have you ever been lost in the woods? Walking through the woods can be refreshing and entertaining.  There is something special about the fresh air and the scenery.  It is exhilarating to sneak up on wild (but tame) animals in their habitat.  Even the act of walking through the woods can clear your mind and … Continue reading When You Feel Lost…

Life Is Hard But God Is Good

Life can be hard.  Believe me; I know firsthand. How we choose to face the hardships of life is important – very important.  Our reactions can lead us into misery and anger, or they can lead us into growth and future joy. Jesus faced more hardship than we can wrap our minds around.  Many people … Continue reading Life Is Hard But God Is Good

We Need Rest and Reflection

We are just a few days away from the Labor Day holiday. When I was a boy, Labor Day was not just a holiday.  It marked the end of summer and the beginning of school because we did not get into the swing of things until the next day; it was too hot before that, … Continue reading We Need Rest and Reflection

How to be a good neighbor

Won’t you be their neighbor? As a boy, I enjoyed watching Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.  Many kids did. We did not realize how countercultural his show was.  In a world full of division and hostility, Fred Rogers brought people together and showed us that we are all neighbors. We need another show like that today, do … Continue reading How to be a good neighbor

How to be a great citizen

Happy Independence Day! The atmosphere on July 4 is a special one.  People celebrate.  Many set aside politics to jointly appreciate being citizens of America.  Patriotism is on display. When I was young, one of the most popular ways that boys could become better citizens was through the Boy Scouts.  Though I joined when the … Continue reading How to be a great citizen

Are the Instructions Important?

Have you ever assembled something without looking at the instructions?  Typically, it ends in leftover items and a spouse not happy with the results. We do not always want to do things in the way we are told they should be done, but we often follow instructions when we know we should.  There are lots … Continue reading Are the Instructions Important?