June 12, 2019 A number of stories claim the origin of Father’s Day, but one theme is common –to show appreciation for Dad and honor him in appropriate ways. It is a worthy tradition. The word “father” appears nearly 1,100 times in the Bible. The first time is in Genesis 2:24, where we read, “A […]
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May 1, 2019 Humans have a tendency to ignore warnings. The pattern started in the Garden of Eden with the first couple. Despite a direct statement from Creator God, they failed to heed the one limitation He placed on them. One would think that with all of the benefits and blessings surrounding them, they could
April 24, 2019 The Apostle Peter gets many comments about his tendency to speak before thinking. I find his life an encouragement because I struggle with the same issue. Apparently, both of us needed to master the principle of James 1:19: “Listen much, speak little and do not become angry.” I am impressed with Peter’s
April 17, 2019 During these days before Resurrection Sunday, I have been thinking about evidence of life after death. It is springtime in the Pacific Northwest, and people are beginning to work in their gardens. Before long, planting will begin. Seeds will be put in the ground and covered with soil. Most objects put in
April 10, 2019 I respect the feelings of people who choose not to attend a Good Friday Service. It is an experience in darkness that makes us uncomfortable. While Jesus’ followers know the Story does not end there, it is still difficult to consider what actually took place. The Roman crucifixion process was more brutal
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February 20, 2019 When we think “head,” most likely we consider facts, information and principles. When we think “heart,” the tendency is to reflect on emotions, feelings and impulses. Both are part of the human make-up as Creator God designed us. When in balance, our life is filled with reason and common sense. If either
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December 19, 2018 Nearing the end of the year, my daily Bible reading includes a chapter from Revelation. I understand so little about this book. Much of the story in Revelation is anything but peaceful. It is obvious that Jesus is in charge. As John the Baptizer said, “Behold the Lamb of God Who takes
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December 14, 2018 A song says it well: “I love to tell the story, for those who know it best seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.” I am pondering those words while reading the Christmas Story from Matthew and Luke in the New Testament. Along with many people, some of my
A Story Worth Repeating Read More »
November 28, 2018 In my late teens, I worked for a friend’s dad during wheat harvest in Eastern Colorado. The area is known for summer hailstorms that in a matter of minutes can destroy an entire year’s effort. One afternoon during the prime of harvest season, I noticed the owner trying to harvest some wheat
Only A Few Things Matter Read More »
November 7, 2018 “Shelter” is a familiar word these days as communities try to find ways to care for homeless people. As cold, wet weather arrives, we want to protect people as much as possible. It is a difficult challenge with no easy solution. I have been pondering the broader issue of the human need
September 19, 2018 Watching the news on TV gives us a very limited picture of the hurt and devastation experienced by people in parts of the world affected by hurricanes, earthquakes and other events beyond their control. The fallout affects individuals and families for a long time ‒ some for the rest of their life.
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August 8, 2018 I cannot imagine life without children. In addition to our own children and grandchildren, much of my ministry life has focused on children. I have said to Carol that when I no longer serve as Senior Pastor, I might see if I could return to being a children’s ministry pastor. She wisely
The Wonder of Childhood Read More »