Exploring Biblical Narratives of Women Without Children

Last updated on: March 5, 2025 at 10:23 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

There’s a temptation to assume that Christian women should both be – and want to be – mothers. Our churches tend to celebrate women and motherhood at the same time. For example, sermons around women are usually reserved for Mother’s Day, Christmastime (involving Mary), and special days devoted to motherhood among a congregation. We don’t hear sermons of the powerful Deborah or Jael, we skip over the Prophetess Huldah, and stick to images of women that are culturally comfortable. Bible... Read more

Trusting God in the Meantime: Faith in the Waiting

Last updated on: February 27, 2025 at 11:43 am By Lee Ann B. Marino

Living in the “in the Meantime” I talk often to several people who are in a place classified as “in the meantime.” The majority of us spend an overwhelming amount of our spiritual walk in this place. We wait for leaders to call us back, for events to come forth, for the Lord to speak through us, for His elevation, revelation, and the fullness of manifestation. When we are in “in the meantime,” we see part of what God has... Read more

Find Comfort in Beliefs About Animals in Heaven

Last updated on: December 20, 2024 at 8:21 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

Many years ago, I remember reading a catalog book summary written by a Seventh-Day Adventist who did some research on the topic after the loss of a beloved pet. His conclusion, based on the book summary, surprised him greatly. It implied that, through some extensive Biblical study, he discovered proof that there would be animals in heaven. I never read the book (I don’t even remember the author’s name now) and I can’t say I ever did his specific research,... Read more

This Valentine’s Day, Hate Your Sin and Love Others

Last updated on: December 20, 2024 at 9:21 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

I first heard the expression, “Hate the sin, love the sinner” as a teenager in the Catholic Church. Our parish priest used the term to speak about some major news story of the day that revolved around something the Catholic Church considered a “sin.” To be honest, I am not sure I remember what exactly it was that he was speaking about, but I clearly remember him using that phrase to describe how he felt we should interact with people... Read more

Addressing Witchcraft from a Christian Perspective

Last updated on: December 20, 2024 at 4:41 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

Witchcraft is a hot topic in most Christian circles. A short survey of any social media site will show curious onlookers the complicated beliefs and concepts people have about what witchcraft is and how it affects the life of the believer. Some people think it has no effect whatsoever, some think it has a moderate impact, and others believe it has such a great impact, there is no way a believer can survive in a situation where witchcraft is present.... Read more

A Beginner’s Guide to Preterist Theology

Last updated on: December 20, 2024 at 3:52 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

The book of Revelation continues to fascinate readers, generation after generation. Even those who aren’t religious or very interested in Bible study take an interest in Revelation. The drama of its contents: heavenly signs and wonders, natural drama, government corruption, and the ultimate fall of evil powers captivates audiences worldwide. For those who read it carefully, many walk away wondering, how does this all play out – and in the long run, what does it mean? Contrary to what many... Read more

Why Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment

Last updated on: January 22, 2025 at 9:45 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

“Mercy” isn’t one of those words we hear much today. It’s a Biblical idea that we like applied to ourselves, but we don’t understand it well enough to see it through to others. When something is wrong, we prefer judgment: something that executes the full extent of the law to right the wrong. But mercy – something divine given out of need, rather than retribution – teaches us far more about ourselves. In this column, we will be looking at... Read more

When You Pray, Move Your Feet: Prayer in Action

Last updated on: December 18, 2024 at 7:22 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

Most of us look around and see massive changes to the world. Things that were unfathomable maybe 30 or 40 years ago are commonplace now. There are a number of different responses to these changes, but most people aren’t sure how to handle them. Many turn to prayer, Scripture, or social activism to solve the perceived issues. Even more are uncertain as to what to do in these situations, in times when we need to move from prayer to action... Read more

Nine Faith-Building Activities to Start the New Year

Last updated on: December 17, 2024 at 11:13 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

January is here, and it’s officially 2025! If you’re anything like me, it’s hard to fathom we are here. Twenty-five years ago, most of us thought the world would end long before now. It’s a true testimony to God that we are still here, with new opportunities to live our faith and spread the Gospel in this new year. That being said, why not take some time to think of some fun faith-building activities that will help take us through... Read more

Ten Spiritual Resolutions to Make in This New Year

Last updated on: November 5, 2024 at 3:49 pm By Lee Ann B. Marino

It’s the time of year when people put away their Christmas decorations and drag out the exercise equipment. For around 63% of Americans, New Year’s resolutions are the way to go. Whether it’s pursuing better health, going back to school, saving money, undertaking a better work/life balance, or finding a new career, New Year’s resolutions set the tone for a good portion of January’s economics, our conversations, and thoughts. Every one of us wants to be better in one form... Read more

My beloved is mine and I am his; he browses among these flowers. What flowers represent purity and beauty?