According to Scripture, traditions, and sources such as Fox's Book of Martyrs many early disciples pad a high physical price for following Christ. Stephen was stoned (Acts 7). James was beheaded (Acts 12). Philip was scourged, imprisoned, and crucified. Matthew was killed by the sword. James, the Less was stoned and his skull smashed with … Continue reading The Real Cost

This morning started with a visit to my doctor for my annual checkup. I arrived at 7:00 a.m. for lab work: they drew blood, took a chest x-ray, and did an E.K.G.  I will go back after 10:00 to see Dr. Warren. I have a good inclination that he will talked to me about my … Continue reading Checkup

A new year quickly approaches. The time many begin to start fresh. We make plans. We resolve to improve our lives and the life of our family in some way. So, since you are thinking that direction, I want to encourage you to get your children more active in spiritual activities. Specifically, I encourage you … Continue reading For the Parents

2017 is quickly coming to a close. As I am wrapping up the year, I am going back through some old posts and read this from 2011: The proverb says, “he who laughs last, laughs best.”  Actor and comedian, Del Close must have believed those lines.  According to the BRI (Bathroom Reader Institute), a source … Continue reading Coming to the Close

Welcome to the time of year when we rush around looking for those last minute gift ideas. You know, the office party you forgot about, your child's teacher(s), your child's best friend, and the one you have been putting off because you are looking for the "perfect gift." I am taking today to remind you … Continue reading Gifts that Last

I heard one of the school age children (middle school) say to their peers, "I can't wait until we are out for Christmas!" Our college students are saying, "We can't wait until finals are over." Waiting. Waiting is nothing new. Adam had to wait for God to create a companion for him. Noah had to … Continue reading Anticipation

I found the following story in my files. A quick internet search revealed it in various forms but with no attribution. Just a Story? Nine-year-old Braun lived in a little village not far from London. Braun's parents were agnostics, but they felt that at least once in his life, he ought to go to church. … Continue reading What Do You See at the Cross?

There is a song stuck in my head this morning. You know the type of song; irritating tune, annoying voice, the type you do not want playing on your morning soundtrack. This particular song this morning has a very annoying voice singing with children. It is a song I have not heard in a while, … Continue reading Cleaning Up the Mess

Name these novels: A man and a woman overcome their first impressions and fall in love. An orphaned boy gets in with the wrong crowd but is saved by wealthy man. An old man catches a big fish, ties it to his boat, it is eaten by sharks, the man goes home and dies.  A … Continue reading Shortened Stories

This morning as I drove to my study, I became lost in thought about so many things concerning God. I reflected on: His creation. The variety of the seasons. The beauty of His handiwork. The people in my life. His people the Church. The peace I have in Christ. The simple joy of following Him. … Continue reading Praise