Sleeping Through the Storms?

The recent wave of violent storms ravaging the mid-western states reminds all of us of the unpredictable power of nature, and the fragility of human life.  I can only imagine what people in Moore, Oklahoma felt when a second series of tornadoes touched down in their area this past week. Storms have a way of

Junk Removal

The other day I noticed one of those hand painted, cardboard signs nailed on a telephone pole at an intersection.  It read, “Junk Removal.”  There was a telephone number to call if you were interested in having your junk removed. I have never seen a sign like that before.  Since then however, I have seen

The Jesus Nut

In many helicopters, there is a rotor-retaining nut that holds the main rotor to the mast. If that nut comes loose during flight, the rotors would detach from the mast and the aircraft would plunge quickly to the earth. This nut is affectionately called “the Jesus nut.” American soldiers may have coined the term during

How is the soil where you live?

So far, so good. When I look at the beautiful stand of grass I now have in my yard, I am amazed at the difference a year of TLC has made.  Last year about this time, the grass appeared to be nice and green.  A closer look revealed a lot of weeds and very little

From A to Z

Recently I heard someone say, “The best way from A to Z is to start with Z.”  This truth can be applied to many things in our lives.  Whether it is a goal for a short-term project, a special event, or your life’s ambition, defining and clarifying the “Z” is essential.   Knowing where we are

Love It or List It

Audio Version Love It or List It is a real estate and renovation show aired on HGTV network.  The premise of the program is the homeowner’s choice to either remodel their existing residence, or move to a new place with all the “bells and whistles.” The hosts of the program, Hilary Farr and David Visentin, compete

Finding the ‘living waters’

Guest article by Dr. James A. Kowalski Washington Post, February 13, 2013  (reprinted by permission)  When I heard Jordan’s story, I knew I wouldn’t forget it. Jordan is a young medical practitioner who volunteered in Honduras. I need to share what happened – especially this Lent, a time of renewal. In 2010, Jordan traveled to the

April Fool

Audio Version April 1st is a day for pranks and practical jokes for many people. Most jokes are harmless. Some are hilarious. Some of the best-known practical jokes in recent years have been perpetrated by advertising agencies as publicity stunts.  The most memorable stunt, at least for me, was Taco Bell’s full-page ad in the

How Much Do We Care?

Almost twenty years ago, Schindler’s List, the epic drama directed by Stephen Spielberg, was released.  The movie, based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, had an immediate social impact, and is regarded today as one of the most influential films of the twentieth century.  The film received seven Academy Awards, and three Golden Globes. The film

Why I Stopped Inviting People to Church

Audio Version I know this will sound strange, but I have come to the point where I have stopped inviting people to church. I should make it clear I still invite people to go with me to worship services and events where the Gospel will be presented. I continue to urge church members to bring