The presence and power of God are always around us—sometimes we just need the reminder. Let me give an example. Many of us say “goodbye” to someone when we part. A few years ago I learned that “goodbye” is from an old word “godbwye.” It’s a short form of “God be with you.” People used … Continue reading The power of “God be with you”
family
Annoying people
Do you want to know something people dislike about holiday gatherings? Annoying people. I know, maybe it’s awkward to talk about, but it’s true. Among other things, annoying people: (a) Think they know everything (b) Only talk about themselves (c) Frequently criticize others (overtly, or passive aggressively) At this point, you’re probably thinking I’m going … Continue reading Annoying people
The best way to stand up for someone?
Sometimes standing up for someone is simpler than you think. Just take this advice from a 2-year old...
Supper’s ready!
I heard about a survey where Americans were asked what words they most liked to hear. Number 1 was “I love you.” No surprise there. Number 2 was “I forgive you.” Makes sense. Number 3 was a bit less predictable. But it totally makes sense… “Supper’s ready!” I wonder why so many people like to … Continue reading Supper’s ready!
Aren’t they all our children?
Several years ago a reporter was covering the conflict in Sarajevo when he saw a young girl get shot. He rushed over to help. By the time he got there another man also wanted to assist. They lifted her into the reporter’s car and set off to the hospital. The reporter drove, and the other … Continue reading Aren’t they all our children?
What if it was something annoying within ourselves?
Something a lot of people enjoy at this time of year is getting together with friends and family. But let’s be honest. There's also a lot of people who DON’T enjoy that part of the holidays! Why? Because certain people can drive us crazy. Some have attitudes, habits and opinions that drive us up the wall! … Continue reading What if it was something annoying within ourselves?
Never underestimate your impact
Yesterday was the 3-year anniversary of the death of my dad, Eric. He was 64. As I look back, I think about the kind of dad he was. He was a great dad. But to be honest, he probably wouldn’t have won a dad-of-the-year award. He was more low-key than that. Plus, he wasn’t perfect. Just as … Continue reading Never underestimate your impact
Say it before it’s too late
One of the profound privileges of being a pastor is being with people who are in their last stages of life on earth. I’ve only been a pastor for 9 years and I’ve held many people’s hands as they’ve passed from this world to the next. What does it teach me? Well, a lot of things. … Continue reading Say it before it’s too late
The greatest disease
Proverbs 18:21 “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (ESV) Today's Thought After her marriage with the Prince of Wales fell apart, Princess Diana said this: “The greatest disease in the world is the disease of being unloved.” Unloved. There are a lot of diseases out there. Terrible diseases. They ravish bodies … Continue reading The greatest disease
