Austin Taylor penned the following lyrics in 1911. They are some of the most meaningful to me; "Closer to Thee, near to Thy side, Closer dear Lord, I would abide; Hold me in Thy embrace, 'neath every smile of grace, Grant me, Thy child a place Closer to Thee." The Greeks wanted to see Jesus. Parents … Continue reading Growing Closer to the Savior
Christ
Reflection
This week in our reading as a congregation we are reading the last five chapters of Matthew. The last three chapters are Matthew's record of the last few hours of Jesus's life. In these last hours, Jesus reveals to the disciples that the end is near. The elders of the Jews step up their plot … Continue reading Reflection
Marriage Matters Monday
Marriage in the Mind of Christ Through the years traditions change when it comes to weddings. When I first started preforming wedding ceremonies, the bride did not rehearse, on the day of the wedding, pictures were taken after so that the groom did not see the bride until she walked down the isle, and Unity Candles were … Continue reading Marriage Matters Monday
Full Coverage
Many years ago I came across a leaflet entitled, "Eternal Life Insurance Policy." Since then a few other versions have temporarily crossed my desk. I am sure that if I searched the desk in my study at home and the one at the building and I looked in the right filing cabinet, I would find … Continue reading Full Coverage
******s Anonymous
When I was a much younger minister, a young person I attempted to help spiritually, had a battle with an addiction. This young adult tried to fight their addiction, but ended up needing help, beyond what I or the church leaders could provide. With their parent's guidance and the help of local counselors they checked … Continue reading ******s Anonymous
Am I A Christian?! Are You?!
Imagine that you are a late night television host with a camera crew and a microphone walking the streets of NYC, LA, or even the town where you live. You are doing one of those street interviews where you ask a seemingly simple question and the answers are . . . well interesting. Here is … Continue reading Am I A Christian?! Are You?!
Saved to What?!
A video blog this morning. I did not feel like keyboarding.
Why I Love the Lord
I love the Lord. By the Lord, I mean my Lord and Savior, Jesus who is the Christ, the Messiah (God's Anointed). Why? What would cause such enamor? I Love Him because every time that Roman scourge tore His flesh leaving lacerations, they were not rightfully His, but He took them for me. I Love Him because … Continue reading Why I Love the Lord
From a Friend
Dear Friend, I just wanted to write to tell you how much I love you and care for you. Yesterday, I saw you walking and laughing with your friends. I hoped that soon you would want me to walk along with you too. So, I painted you a sunset to close your day and whispered … Continue reading From a Friend
Keep Happy in the Holidays
This is a re-posting from last year. Since I have a few new readers, I thought I would share one of my personal favorite posts. I am a BIG fan of this time of year. I love the festivities. I love the family gatherings, the gathering of friends, exchanging gifts, decorating the house, and singing … Continue reading Keep Happy in the Holidays