I ignored the warnings for months. The first was a quiet, almost imperceptible nudge. Then came stronger recognition. Finally, last fall, when asked for a prayer request, my answer reflected a growing awareness. But still, I pushed those warnings aside. For those who...
I’m weary of people talking without listening to the words they speak. And they seem to be appearing in news headlines with appalling frequency. I’m weary of Christians who say God is love, then spew hatred for unbelievers. I’m weary of secularists who demand...
A new year, a new word. In 2015, my “one word” for the year was release—a word I didn’t like, but did need. These posts explain my choice and my experience in applying my one word. The following year, my word was joy…a word that seemed to be the opposite of release,...
Each new year brings the potential for a clean slate. New opportunities, new challenges, new experiences. But that clean slate also produces uncertainty. Globally, we're facing wars, terrorism, and natural disasters. Nationally, we're weary of political...
Can you identity the companies by these slogans? “Can You Hear Me Now?” “Just Do It” “The Quicker Picker Upper” Companies usually consider certain criteria when creating a marketing slogan or tagline. They look for phrases that will differentiate their brand while...
A line from the 1934 Babes in Toyland came to mind recently: “Big bait catches big rat!” It’s a quote by the villain, Barnaby, after he successfully traps the two hapless heroes, Laurel & Hardy. I’m reminded of that line almost every time I scroll through my...
I was recently reminded that a few weeks ago marked the first anniversary of the death of Elisabeth Elliot. She was the wife of martyred missionary Jim Elliot. Even if you don’t know his name, you’ve probably heard some of his quotes: “He is no fool who gives what he...
I recently returned from a writers’ conference in Estes Park, Colorado, nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains. When we checked in, our guest packages included a flyer titled, “Be Bear Aware.” The flyer is standard issue to all guests because apparently some folks...
Each year on April 13, I stop to ask the same question. I look back on the past twelve months, look forward to the coming year, and ask myself: “Does my life reflect what I claim to be living for?” It’s a question I do not answer casually. Our time on earth is...
I recently attended a Celebration of Life service for a friend’s adult daughter. It was a beautiful service, with a touching time of fellowship afterward. Even as we celebrated her life, the pain was palpable—agony beyond the pain of the loss of a child, as great as...
Confessions of a Recovering Pharisee Have you ever looked up to a pastor or teacher, wishing you could be as...
Dayenu – That is Enough! This has been a significant week on several levels. From a Good Friday presentation of...
How Desensitized Are You? As I write this, my phone is dinging. Breaking news: “At least 12 dead after massive...