Christmas wasn’t supposed to be like this: I imagine being surrounded by those we love, cherishing why we are gathered here in the first place: Christ’s birth. I picture Valerie and I having Christmas breakfast together as we enjoy a carefree time opening presents. I envision being healthy, going outside,Continue Reading
Life. Gets. Busy. With Christmas around the corner, it’s only natural to feel the squeeze of holiday obligations. There’s so much to do in so little time! The presents, the festivities, the gatherings… and don’t forget everyday personal responsibilities. As we ease into the Christmas spirit, it can be easyContinue Reading
In several of my conversations within the last couple of weeks, I recognized a common theme: people are going through hardships – real and difficult circumstances. While the scope of the trials varies individually, this season appears to have brought with it a heaviness that makes it difficult for peopleContinue Reading
When there is a plan, there are problems. I had extra responsibilities to take care of before Valerie, and I left for vacation. The pressure is on – get what needs to be done before we leave. Delegating ministry duties, writing reports, and crucial conversations had to be taken careContinue Reading
Here’s the truth: we ALL have needs. Every day is an opportunity for the most basic of needs to be met: A full belly, thirst quenched, and a roof over your head to sleep in peace. Beyond these basics, there are needs typically found wanting and in waiting: There areContinue Reading
“If only I could get that job….” “Ugh. When am I ever going to have enough free time to do what I want to do?” “When I meet ‘the one,’ then I’ll feel loved and appreciated.” What do these statements above all have in common? They are expressions of discontentment. Continue Reading
When there is no more room in your closet to hang your clothes, it only means one thing – the clothes need to go! Valerie and I took the time last weekend to get rid of old clothes that we no longer use. We realized (especially Valerie, who has farContinue Reading
If you are feeling discouraged and disheartened, you are in need of hope. A biblical hope focuses on what Christ can do when faced with unprecedented trials, severe loss, and disillusionment. I wrote this to someone special who has been experiencing a lot of anguish and in the midst ofContinue Reading
It was one of those days. I was unsure if I ‘woke up on the wrong side of the bed’ or Murphy’s Law was in full effect. Whatever the case, I was now in a sour mood. My mind continually drifted back towards what had gone wrong, thus, fueling theContinue Reading
The Lord loves to speak to us, His people! I was listening to a brother in the faith express his heart and frustration over his circumstances. As we transitioned to prayer, I was given an image from the Holy Spirit to provide guidance and reassurance for him. Yet this messageContinue Reading