Today’s Civil War

The American Civil War of 1861-1864 is known to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the nation's history with more soldier fatalities than both World Wars combined.  The harsh winters, along with lack of adequate supplies brought on many diseases. Better provisions in nursing care could have relieved these to a great extent.  The technology …

Four Experiences Regarding Witnessing (from Mark 16)

Testimony of an angel. (vs. 1-8) The angel spoke to the two Mary’s early Sunday morning. They had made their way to the tomb with spices to anoint Jesus’ body.  His first words – (vs. 6) "Don’t be afraid." He made no movements that could be taken aggressively. He simply sat and spoke to them. …

Lead Like a Shepherd

Isaiah 40:1 "He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young." The picture of Jesus as a good shepherd is one of my favorite.  Even before I became a mother I was enamored …

Do Hard Things

Is there something in your life that keeps beating you down?  Is there an issue that you are wrestling with on a reoccurring basis?  Do you have a proverbial enemy in a known sinful habit? Deuteronomy 7: 17 and 18 reads, "If you say in your heart, "These nations are more than I: how can …

Rational for Alcohol-free Christianity

Perhaps you are wondering if alcohol can be compatible with the Christian life.  Do you want a rational for a Christian life that does not indulge in alcohol?  The first thing to do is to recognize who you are in Christ. Exodus19:6 records God telling Moses what to say the people, “And ye shall be …

Switch the Thoughts

Psalm 77 is a compelling example of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in action. C.B.T. shows the client how their underlying thoughts impact their emotions, and ultimately their behaviors. Identifying and changing negative thought patterns, in turn have positive influences on both the behaviors and emotions.  This Psalm reveals someone who is struggling with negative thoughts and then …

Two Lies and a Truth about Saint Patrick

Nearly all that we definitively know about the 5th Century Patrick is what we learn of him from his own writing, his Confession.  Since his death there has been much biographical information added regarding him, nearly all of it without the backing of proof.  Of particular interest is that in some cases this information was …

His Banner Part 2

At age 12 Jesus recognized his overall mission, and as He grew He continued to receive His specific “marching orders” daily during His quiet time, praying to the Father. Missions like “Go to Nain” – for a widow and her dead son. And another day, “Go to the Syro-Phonecian woman” –  and help a desperate single …

His Banner Part 1

The world’s largest banner was paid for by the fans of  Uruguay’s Club National de Football. This banner was a big deal in expense, in size ,and in weight. It cost 50 thousand United States dollars. After deciding upon the design, it took a year and a half to make the banner which measures 600 meters long …

Flag Flying High

It is royal tradition in the United Kingdom that whenever the reigning monarch is present at one of the residential castles a special flag is flown from the flagpole there to signify the event. Seeing the Royal Standard means that the Queen is present on the grounds of that particular residence at the time.  The Union Flag usually flies …