Before he was a writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky was arrested by the czar of Russia and sentenced to death by firing squad. Leading up to the day of his execution, Dostoevsky became acutely aware of the gift of life. He savoured every moment, every meal, every memory. He knew he had only so long to enjoy … Continue reading Surviving a firing squad
gratitude
Three tips to go deeper
Yesterday I shared the powerful story of Corrie ten Boom and her ability to be thankful even in hellish experiences. Following the lead of 1 Thessalonians 5:18 where Paul says to “give thank in all circumstances,” she was even able to thank God for the fleas in a World War Two concentration camp. It might … Continue reading Three tips to go deeper
Thankful in a hellish experience
During World War Two, Corrie ten Boom and her family sheltered many Jews who were fleeing the Nazis. In 1944 the Nazi police seized Corrie, her sister Betsie, and their father. They ended up in a concentration camp, all the while holding firm to the promises of God. One day they moved into Barracks 28. … Continue reading Thankful in a hellish experience
At risk of contamination
Last year I overheard a child ask his mother this question: “What is Easter about?” The mom paused for a moment and said, “It’s about family and fun and chocolate and spring.” A part of me wanted to whip out my Bible and say, “Actually, it’s about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ!” But … Continue reading At risk of contamination
How’d no complaining go?
7 days ago I proposed the 7-Day No-Complaint challenge. (You can see that post here.) The idea was simple. Wear a watch or bracelet, and every time you complain about something irrelevant, switch it to the other wrist. Quite simply, it makes you more aware of how much you’re complaining—and hopefully helps you dial down … Continue reading How’d no complaining go?
The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge
Thou shalt not complain. You’re right. It’s not one of the 10 commandments. But the Bible certainly warns against complaining all the time. I think about the ancient Hebrews complaining to Moses in the wilderness. Or Philippians 2:14-15 (NLT) where Paul says this: “Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize … Continue reading The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge
Credit where credit is due
Imagine your best friend did something wonderful for you—like fix your broken garage door for free. They bought the parts, put in free labour, and even gave it a nice new paint job. The next day, some people come over and admire your spectacular garage door. What do you say? Do you say, “Thanks! I’m … Continue reading Credit where credit is due
If your desires be endless…
What if this one simple habit could give you more peace (and less worry)? Deceptively simple, exponentially helpful.
If you’re thankful, do this
Sure, you think thankfulness is a good idea. But if you do this, you'll actually be showing it.
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
