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We were standing on the deck that my wife had just painted, sipping coffee, enjoying the flowers and the refreshing scent of a lilac bush, when she noticed something. This is not always a good thing. Something she "notices" can translate into a big project. Being the kind, compassionate husband…

We were standing on the deck that my wife had just painted, sipping coffee, enjoying the flowers and the refreshing scent of a lilac bush, when she noticed something. This is not always a good thing. Something she "notices" can translate into a big project. Being the kind, compassionate husband…

Wise, humble, and smart "how-to" questions gave birth to a helpful network of television, video, and Internet called "Do It Yourself" (DIY). DIY is built on the ethic that "an ordinary person can learn to do more than he or she thought was possible." Smart people "do it themselves" to save money,…

Almost daily I come into contact with someone who feels worthless or disappointed with life. I can relate. When I was a senior in high school, a guidance counselor told me that I was a loser and that I would "never amount to anything in life." I did not take this criticism well. In fact, I spent…

Remember the days before cell phones? When I watch old reruns of television shows or older movies, I am amazed at how often the process of communication is such an important part of the plot line. Having to find a stationary pay phone or office phone often hinders the work of the main character.…

My friend and I, both native English speakers, showed an interest in the Spanish language in high school. We took required Spanish courses and practiced speaking Spanish as often as we could. I continued to be interested in the Spanish language while in college but did not pursue it as an academic…

Salt has, in some ways, developed a bad reputation these days. It can cause high blood pressure and heart issues when it is over used. Part of the reason salt has developed its reputation is that it is so accessible. That has not always been the case, of course. In ancient times, salt was…

"And [the angel Gabriel] came to [Mary] and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive…

As a longtime pastor, I have always enjoyed collecting stories that might be useful in sermons or presentations. One of my favorites involves two young preachers, just out of seminary, who were interviewing to become the senior pastor of a small church in midwestern United States. They had been…

In Genesis 15, we encounter Abram’s story just after he rescued Lot and had the encounter with the priest and king of Salem. “After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.’” The Lord said to Abram, “Do not be afraid…