A few sermon series ago, Pastor Mike was talking about spiritual gifts. As a theme verse, he used 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, which says: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the …
Who, or What, do you want to be? We all heard that question as kids. At that age we probably answer that question with a job title; superhero, firefighter, veterinarian, teacher, or something like that. Years later we have a much more complex answer to that question. Who and what we want to be involves more than just the job …
We are hearing a lot about “national unity” in the news these past several weeks. Politicians and other leaders are calling for us to come together as a common people with a common purpose so that our nation can heal from the wounds of the past four years. The irony is that both sides blame the other for the cause …
New year’s resolutions. Lots of us make them. Maybe yours have included a new diet, or perhaps a new exercise plan? Maybe you wanted to read more? Perhaps you have planned to develop a new skill like learn an instrument or even a new language. Have you thought to yourself that this next year, you are going to keep in …
On behalf of everyone who survived the year 2020, let me be first to say, welcome to 2021. We made it y’all! As we go into the month of January, we focus on an age-old tradition that happens around this time (no, I’m not talking about the college football playoff). I’m talking about making resolutions. Yes, that tradition that everyone …
Usually, on January 1 we are sad to say goodbye to the following year as we look forward to the possibilities the new year brings. This year, however, it seems we are glad to say goodbye to 2020, but we are apprehensive about what 2021 may bring. A new president, the growing tension between political parties, and a new strain …
Dedicated to Viola Barnard; Aunty Vi, I love you. I know you are rejoicing in heaven right now and worshiping the one who died for us. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV): “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my …
Once again we enter the season of Advent. Another season of shopping and Christmas festivities. However this year we will be facing an Advent season like no other. COVID has changed everything, even Christmas. Many people will avoid traveling, so family gatherings may not happen this year. Many will avoid the malls, so shopping will be done almost entirely online …
With a Ph.D. in organic chemistry and a good teaching job at an Ivy League medical school, John Castelli felt like a winner. He had a dependable income, prestige in his neighborhood, and his father’s undying admiration. For ten years, Castelli did his job well and enjoyed a comfortable routine. And then, the man at the university who sponsored his …
A man once dreamed of building a playground in a ghetto neighborhood. He approached the owners of an apartment complex, who gave him permission to build, but offered no help. As he walked through the complex one day, he met a little girl. He shared his dream with her and she immediately ran to her apartment and returned with a …