Today I picked up walnuts. Not just a bucket or two but five wheelbarrows full. We have our share of walnut trees which is quite nice considering it gives us full grown trees, pretty leaves in the summer and filtered shade. They also provide walnuts which would be great if I wanted to learn the …
Last evening a friend and I were talking and discovered an experience we hold in common. Both of us share the common experience of being cut off by someone we thought was a friend. Not just casually ignored but told with words that we are no longer considered a friend. Many times, relationships do not …
In the land of ancient Israel, there were several considerations to take into account when a people group decided where to settle. They looked around a prospective site and asked, “Is there a water source?” “Is there food here?” “Will we be protected?” Water was the first consideration. Without drills and the equipment we have …
Parenting isn’t for cowards. It is a demanding task with sleepless nights, long days and messy floors. Then there are those times when children don’t appreciate the sacrifices parents make to ensure their comfort, safety and overall well-being. These revelations are often unsolicited and unwelcome glimpses into the child’s mind. My first experience with these …
I wonder at times, where does God dwell? What does he look for in me? Why does he feel distant at times? 15. . . the Holy One says this:“I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive …
In the writing of Isaiah the prophet, he records the conflict between Hezekiah, the King of Judah and King Sennacherib of Assyria, the dominant world power of his day. Sennacherib sends a letter to Hezekiah that begins in this manner: 10“This message is for King Hezekiah of Judah. Don’t let your God, in whom you …
My phone whistles at me, indicating another new text message. I glance at it and read another no. No, it doesn’t work tonight. I drop my head slightly and hear the subtle, mocking voice – “you should just throw your hands up and quit.” Tempted to agree, I pause on the image that comes to …
Today the doctor called me with the results of routine blood work. Not suspecting anything to be wrong, I wasn’t surprised when the report was favorable. As many others in my family, my cholesterol wanders higher than it should be and she noted that, as well as a slight rise in my A1C level. I …
My mom tells a funny story about lemon pie. Grandma used to bake fresh bread and pie every Saturday to be enjoyed on Sunday. One Saturday, Grandma made lemon meringue pie. Now my mom didn’t particularly like lemon pie and might have skipped dessert except for one thing. Her sister invited her boyfriend over after …
. . . I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. 5I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 When I read this verse, I am brought up short. Immediately, I have to ask myself a question: am I relying on the …