"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." Psalm 127:3 (NLT)In my once or twice a year effort to turn this house into a place even Mr. Clean would find acceptable, I can often bemoan and get frustrated over the never-ending dirt I find everywhere. Just when I think I have cleaned the last smudge on the wall and done the last load of laundry, I realize a new spot or … [Read more...] about Sticky Fingers
gratitude
The Valley of Baca
"Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools.They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.Hear my prayer, O LORD God Almighty; listen to me, O God of Jacob." Selah Psalm 84:5-8 … [Read more...] about The Valley of Baca
A True Offering
"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)My children have learned the order of our Sunday church service by heart. The offering comes just a few minutes before our pastor delivers his sermon. The piano and organ play a beautiful piece of worship music. The congregation sits … [Read more...] about A True Offering
Worth Their Weight in Gold
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17 (NIV)My life as an MK (missionary kid) in Congo was one I wouldn't trade for a million dollars. I am so thankful for those eight years from age ten to eighteen that shaped my world. Although there was plenty that was not laughable, I was thinking … [Read more...] about Worth Their Weight in Gold
Happy Labor Day!
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:15-16 (NIV)I hope all of my American friends are having a great, relaxing … [Read more...] about Happy Labor Day!
Freedom Isn’t Free
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13 (NIV)(Todd and Nicol celebrating Fourth of July at Nkara-Ewa, Congo, 1981)Where were you September 11, 2001? I was getting breakfast for my four-year, three-year, and one-year-old children when the phone rang. It was my dad."Shawn, turn on the news … [Read more...] about Freedom Isn’t Free
