I’m not a Type A personality, but I do like to get things done—especially when I believe the tasks in question might make a positive impact on God’s Kingdom. These things are more than tasks, really; they’re a calling. Such is the case with my newsletter debacle. For four months, October of 2017 through January 2018, my assistants and I were in sort …
Hope and Perseverance by Linda McFarland
I have never really given much thought about the word of the year concept. However, in the last two years I have become aware of two words that have become relevant to the events that have transpired in my life. Those two words are hope and perseverance. Rejoice in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer. Romans 12:12 (NASB) I …
Precious Forgiveness by Nichole Ridner
As my 11-year-old son walked out of the house at the end of January in shorts, I commented that he could wear what he wanted but my suggestion that he wear pants would help him avoid his feelings getting hurt by comments from others. His response left me speechless, ashamed and heartbroken. “Mom, the only person who ever says anything …
Learning About Myself by Faith Ruotolo
I had the great pleasure of watching my 3 year old grandson the other weekend. It was such a joy to be able to see him run around, grab my hand and say, “Na-Na play with me.” I got down on all fours (which let me tell you is not so easy as it was when I was younger) and …
Unjust Peace by Nichole Ridner
“Yet even then their testimony did not agree.” Mark 14:59 It has never surprised me that Jesus was charged and convicted unjustly. After all, Isaiah 53:3-4 foretold his unfair trial by saying “He was despised and rejected…considered punished by God.” He was misunderstood and judged without just cause. Why then am I shocked when I’m treated similarly? A few years …
Hypocrite or Holy Roller?
Roy and I spent most of our lives in Indiana but lived for the last decade in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The two cultures are about as opposite as a jalapeño and an egg white, a rhino and a wooly worm, a ballet dancer and a cowboy. I love them both for different reasons. The interesting thing is, both the …