Glimpses of Grace
Longing Fulfilled is a Tree of Life
The wise writer of these words really knew what they were talking about: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12).
I proposed to Abby in September of 2002, right near… Read the rest
Hungry for Worship
“Blessed is the one who hungers and thirsts for what comes from God, for in your hunger you shall be filled.”
That is my paraphrase of Matthew 5:6, the fourth beatitude. I receive it as God’s assurance that when we… Read the rest
Upward Prayers
Last Saturday I dropped in on the Upward Basketball and Cheerleading program. It was opening day. The parking lot was full with the annex parking lot filling up fast. Inside the place was hopping-two games in action with crowds of… Read the rest
Who Is Holding You?
“Who is holding you?” Robbie asked his daughter, Ella, as she carried her in his arms.
“You are, Daddy,” she answered as she rested in his embrace.
That is how Robbie Ytterberg concluded his message on Sunday morning as he… Read the rest
Glitches of Grace
Last Sunday morning was an adventure right from the start, in fact, before the start.
We were in my pastor’s study gathering before the 8:15 service. My wife was practicing the pronunciation of Robbie Ytterberg’s last name as she would… Read the rest
Unrest in Malawi
As I read the Christmas letter from Pastor Kay Day, our mission person in Malawi, I was moved by her account of the struggles and needs of the people of that precious nation. I am passing on to you one… Read the rest
Watch Out for Squirrels
Chap entered our hearts last April. Our son, Steve, noticed and named the little rascal while relaxing in our sunroom…and preparing for his return to Germany. Like most red squirrels, Chap is very small, energetic, and territorial. We often heard… Read the rest
Lap Bird or Leopard?
He sat before me at the front of the sanctuary, eagerly taking in the children’s message for the Sunday service. As I wrapped up the message, he pointed to the stuffed animal he was holding and announced to me, “This… Read the rest
Circle These Dates
Good Monday morning.
This will be a very practical note so that all of us can get some dates circled on our calendars:
Sunday, November 27: This Sunday is the first Sunday of Advent. We will pray our way into… Read the rest
Grace at Men’s Rehab Retreat
“I had to keep on trying to believe that I am someone worth dying for.”
That is how one man described his journey through alcoholism and to the foot of the cross. He spoke of the shame and self- hate… Read the rest