Tag Archives: Jesus

It’s a Christmas Miracle!

Posted on December 19, 2015 | Leave a comment

I’ve given birth to a new book. (Well, it was a different kind of labor than you mothers have.) It is called “30 Days to Acts: A Devotional Commentary”. You can get this devotional book at Amazon. (Just click on the picture.) Merry Christmas!

30 Days to Acts

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Posted in books, Christianity, Uncategorized

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Christmas Movies

Posted on December 5, 2015 | Leave a comment

Like so many, my family will watch some Christmas movies this year. It’s a fun tradition.
-We’ll watch “A Christmas Story” and say “adios, Bart” with a hard “a” on the adios while giving warnings about the danger of shorting one’s eye out.
-We will watch “Elf” and note that Francesco is indeed a fun name to say.
-We will probably watch “Christmas Vacation” and remember that the jelly of the month club is the gift that keeps on giving.
-“Home Alone” might slip in there as we ask Continue reading →

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Posted in Christianity, Christmas, Uncategorized

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Why Missions?

Posted on October 8, 2015 | Leave a comment

The question is phrased differently but often asked. Why international missions? Why not focus on the needs here? Aren’t there enough spiritual needs in America to focus upon? Why care about those so far away? Couldn’t we better spend our money here?
Here are some of my answers to “why missions?”
1. Missions is biblical. The bible talks frequently about the gospel being for all nations. Everyone needs the Lord, not just those who speak English or live nearby. Frankly, Continue reading →

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Posted in Church, International Mission Board, missions, Uncategorized

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Theology is Not the Goal

Posted on September 29, 2015 | Leave a comment

I’ve read a couple of books recently that taught me more about the life of J.P. Morgan, the famous banker. I didn’t know much about his life and work but he was among the most powerful men in the world for a time. He had great wealth, incredible influence and a massive art collection.
There was one thing that really surprised me about the man. He was Continue reading →

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Posted in bible, Christianity, Church, theology, Uncategorized

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What Pastors Need

Posted on September 21, 2015 | 2 comments

The world of pastors and other vocational ministers is a different world. It can be wonderful, fulfilling, frustrating and discouraging all in the same day. It is fantastic because we get to work with people and it can be challenging because… well, because we get to work with people.
The majority of ministers do it because they believe God has called them to this important task. They want to make a difference in this world and in eternity. They care about people and love the message of the gospel. Their motivation, if they are what they need to be, is to honor the Lord, teach His word and help others to join them in following Jesus.
But, like all people, they have needs. Let me mention four things pastors need from their churches.
1. They need Continue reading →

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Posted in encouragement, minister, pastor, Uncategorized

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What Missionaries Need

Posted on May 8, 2015 | 4 comments

I’m not a missionary but that won’t stop me from speculating on what they need. And I might be right. After all, I know what most mother’s need– sleep! (Followed by a long nap.)
So, here are 5 things I suspect missionaries need from us. Feel free to suggest others.

1. Encouragement. Discouragement comes easily and sneakily. Being far from family, friends and culture can lend itself to this malady- and the interest rate on that loan is huge. Many Continue reading →

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Posted in Christianity, missions, Uncategorized

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4 Helpings of Birthday Cake

Posted on April 20, 2015 | 1 comment

Sunday was my birthday. I loved sharing my birthday with hundreds and hundreds of people at church. I love my church despite all the “humaness” that keeps us from being perfect. My church, like yours, is filled with people who have messed up and fallen. It is filled with people like Continue reading →

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Posted in blessings, Church, family, friendship, Uncategorized

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How Winter Helps

Posted on March 2, 2015 | Leave a comment

I love the four seasons. I do get tired of winter and summer, but all four have their charms. (I say that with 7 inches of new snow on the ground which really cut into the attendance at church on Sunday. I really like a big crowd to preach to as do all pastors. I prefer snow to come on Sunday night rather than Saturday night as do all pastors- and school kids.)
But winter serves a really great purpose. (Besides Continue reading →

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Connected by Faith

Posted on February 23, 2015 | 3 comments

The church where I was saved many years ago just bought 500 copies of my devotional book “Immersed: 40 Days to a Deeper Faith”. They are going to use it for a church wide series beginning the week after Easter. Many churches have used the book that way now, but there is a special connection you have with the church where you gave your life to Christ.

I trusted Christ as my Savior and Lord in the old worship center at Continue reading →

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Posted in books, Christianity, Church, faith, Uncategorized

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About Fasting

Posted on February 9, 2015 | 1 comment

Once in a while, I ask our church to fast. I doubt it is the most popular request I make. But many tell me of the spiritual significance of their fasting. So here is a brief overview of fasting.
What it isn’t-
1. Fasting isn’t a weight loss program. You lose muscle and replace it with fat when the fast is over. There are better ways to lose weight. I have no idea what those ways are, but I’m sure they are out there.
2. Fasting isn’t a hunger strike. It isn’t a way to bully God into Continue reading →

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