Oppositional. That’s what came to mind when I tried to think how to describe a little friend I’ll call Missy. At four-years-old, she could be affectionate, but she was a handful. She fought order and almost everything we asked of her or the group at our weekly outreach to children in the community. Missy is the…
continue reading »The Christmas of 1968 would be like no other. Snow was out of the question; the temperature soared. Green trees, tile-roof houses, and dust-covered zinnias lined the rutted, dusty road as we traveled to the home in a rural town in central Brazil. Children played in front of colorful houses, but there were no decorated trees in the…
continue reading »Our relationship had become very rocky. Intimate moments between mother and child had been replaced with tension and conflict. I went to sleep every night and woke up every morning praying for answers. My heart longed for our previous normal. I didn’t expect the answer to come in a dream. One night, I saw a big…
continue reading »Jesus’ words are being confirmed today: “Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” Luke 12:2-3 There are times when…
continue reading »I believe the Lord consistently uses the book of Philippians to speak to me more than any other. He whispers little reminders to correct me and nudge me back into His will. For instance, if I’m down or discouraged about something, the thought will come to mind, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I say…
continue reading »Sheryl was distraught . She came to Robert and me for advice, because she and her parents were in conflict. She was confident we would see things her way, because her position was based on a foundational principle. She shared that she and her boyfriend had begun talking about marriage, but her parents didn’t like…
continue reading »We had a refreshing visit with John. He was cordial, gracious, interesting, and entertaining–in a subtle sort of way. He was one of those people that make you ask, “Tell me more.” We met him Monday when we went to pick up something at his home. Our visit lasted much longer than the errand required. We were…
continue reading »Conflict often erupts unexpectedly. A minor misunderstanding can lead to a caustic response with further back and forth. Before you know it, strife fills the air. Relationships are often strained and families destroyed over minor issues that escalate out of control. I can’t stand to be in the midst of such a clash, but more often than…
continue reading »What occupies your mind when responsibilities don’t demand your attention? Take time to consider it. Your idle thoughts could tell you a lot. Fears dominate many people’s thoughts. The news offers fuel for fearful thoughts, such as the disunity in the country. Some are concerned about their safety because ISIS might attack or war could break out. Those…
continue reading »Most of us are familiar with the prayer that Jesus taught His disciples. We pray it together, saying “Forgive us our debts—or trespasses—as we forgive our debtors—or those who trespass against us.” If we grew up in the church, we’ve probably prayed it so many times that we often don’t hear what we’re saying, but…
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