Love Poured Into Me
In 2018, Dr. Bizal at Deaconess Ear, Nose, and Throat performed surgery on my right ear because of a cholesteatoma diagnosis. The doctor believed this growth had likely been in my ear since early in my life. In my 40s,
Character Produces Hope
Walking with men and women of deep faith through debilitating disease of their own or a dear family member, I have witnessed the rejoicing in suffering that breeds endurance and character. In the ICU waiting room with the family whose
Endurance Produces Character
The foundation of a strong life is built on our faith and hope in Jesus Christ who walks with us in our suffering. As we have noted previously, we are able to rejoice in our suffering and that our suffering
Suffering Breeds Endurance
The 2026 Winter Olympics ended recently. As I watched the different sports, I was constantly in amazement at the artistry, risk, accuracy, and sure grit of each competitor. Whether it was the mesmerizing curling event or the beauty and majesty
Rejoice in Suffering
Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through
My Offering
What will you give up for Lent this year? This question will become common language over the next several days leading up to Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. The Mardi Gras festivities are in full swing as we
Preparing for Lent
The Christmas celebration occurred a little over one month ago. The memories of families gathered, late-night services to celebrate Jesus’ birth, and the beautiful music of Christmas are still fresh in our minds. Yet, in just over two weeks, we
Intentional Preparation
My quiet space and devotion/study area is the recliner at the end of the couch in our living room. Several years ago, our son, Judah, made me a lapboard that perfectly fits a Bible, a devotion book, and a journal.
Intentional Rhythm
Three of my children have returned to school for the second semester. For my two children in college, it means a new schedule with different classes and times when they are supposed to be in class. The university and seminary
Living Intentionally
It is estimated that 80% of people who made resolutions two weeks ago have already failed. By the end of the year, only 10% will succeed in reaching their resolution goal. When we look at resolutions, it seems a futile