“I am what I am, and that’s all that I am. I’m Popeye the Sailor Man.” – Popeye Reflections Argh! I wonder if I can ever be a better person. This week was bruising, both literally and figuratively. We all think we’re good until things start going wrong. Then lookout. “I tell you, in this world, being a little crazy helps to keep you sane.” – Zsa Zsa Gabor on BrainyQuote.com Bible reference: “… if the power of sin within... Read more
This story highlights Christian values, emphasizing the teachings of Jesus. Chapter 2: Christian advantage Judith image by Meta, enhanced by Dorian Cole Despite the harsh sleeping environment just feet off the road, Judith woke feeling refreshed and excited about the people she was with. She brushed leaves and sticks from her plain brown robe, then shifted her body inside the robe to untwist the long chemise undergarment that had wrapped itself around her waist during the night. She discreetly perused... Read more
Generation Z tends to ignore religion, which many feel is toxic and the cause of many problems. They aren’t wrong. With megaphones, some Christians condemn everyone and everything, and terrorists kill in the name of God. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” – John 14:27 I wish that religion could tell... Read more
What did Jesus really teach? It’s difficult to know except through the twelve apostles, because the first five books of the New Testament are about Jesus’ mission to the Jews, not to non-Jews. Similarities and significant differences exist. Forgiveness and love are the uniting themes. One way of exploring this is fiction based on fact. Storytelling is something I do, with over 20 fiction and nonfiction books available (see the end notes). Based on fact: This is what stories are... Read more
It’s difficult walking into a church for the first time for anyone, and new generations are especially difficult to not scare away. However, I believe there exist methods to conquer this hindrance. What are the problems? The past 20+ years of church history have been tumultuous with unjust beliefs and hate-filled bullhorn voices. This is a tough image to change. Churches tend to be a sea of gray hair. People are friendly only to those they know, not welcoming to... Read more
I’m a peacemaker at heart. But peace doesn’t mean the end of conflict. Conflict is normal. We’re human. We have different ideas and wants. Reconciling people with other people is not a straightforward thing. In the course I’m developing on creating change, there are some unwelcome realities. Getting to peace means knowing how to resolve conflict. It doesn’t mean shooting people. The US is a nation in conflict within. Some of it stems from genuine needs. Much of it is... Read more
A year ago, nature swept an EF3 tornado through the Sullivan, Indiana countryside, and town, killing five people and destroying many homes. Restoration is still in progress. Where do we find the face of God in troubled times? Elijah faced dire circumstances, tired and exhausted “So He [God] said, “Go forth and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord was passing by! And a great and strong wind was rending the mountains and breaking in pieces... Read more
At what age do you quit serving? I make it a point to only engage in tasks that require my specific skills and abilities, and leave the rest to others. Others need opportunities. This way I can focus on what I do well. For example, I think I’m good at sitting on a couch and watching TV–I have a lot of practice. “If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing... Read more
I have mixed feelings about recent Supreme Court decisions. The decision on presidential immunity created a constitutional crisis. I believe the Supreme Court ignored the Constitution, created law, and it could lead to disaster. This isn’t sensationalism, it’s a serious consideration. Shays’ Rebellion is relevant to today’s US political divisions. Shays’ Rebellion (1786-87) was an armed insurrection by rural farmers in western and central Massachusetts, sparked by the state government’s unpopular response to a debt crisis. The insurrection reached its... Read more
Just kidding. I can’t even remember what I did last summer. What Did You Do Over Summer Vacation? It’s a common question in US schools: “What did you do during summer vacation?” Sixty days of fun! There I was at one of daughter’s homes, enjoying our stay, seven hundred miles away, when I got the call: “Our home air conditioning is not working.” I guess I could have let them roast, or pay a lot of money for a hotel.... Read more
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