Joy beyond joy

Joy beyond joy

A lot of ministries and businesses begin all starry-eyed with the vision of what they could become. Tons of energy gets poured into these ventures, often led by visionaries who see ten years into the future (with not one obstacle or problem considered). These projects...
Not kids anymore

Not kids anymore

‘Discretion’ is defined as cautious reserve in speech. ‘Reserve’ is defined as cautious in making a full explanation, restraint in the free expression of one’s mind. Neither of these is to be expected in a little child. It is pretty much useless to try to...
The joy of knowing

The joy of knowing

God’s story is, on the one hand, solid, unwavering, faithful, sure. On the other hand, there are man’s instabilities, disobediences, unfaithfulnesses, waywardnesses.  Almost at the beginning, the terrible and far-reaching consequences of the Fall are outlined for...
The joy of gift-giving

The joy of gift-giving

“What did I do to deserve this?” This question could be a whining complaint about the ills which have befallen someone. Or, equally, it could be the Apostle Paul’s bewilderment at finding himself blessed, protected, provided for, included, etc., in God’s plan of...
Hiking boots recommended

Hiking boots recommended

A college student with the goal of becoming a neurosurgeon enters her studies knowing that much study and reading and personal sacrifice are ahead. She signs up for classes, thereby consenting to the sleepless nights, the long years of internship, the financial...