Over the weekend, I turned sixty. Sixty! That’s very close to the traditional retirement age. The end of the road is coming into view. And many young folk (including myself when I was younger) have the misguided notion that the sixtieth year somehow marks a condition of significant decline in physical, and perhaps even mental, …
One prayer meeting, I was wrapping up the devotional time. I do not remember now exactly what I was saying, but I was highlighting the main point. Unexpectedly, I was interrupted by an unusual source. A voice declared: “I’m sorry. I don’t know what you mean.” And everyone burst out in laughter, for it was …
I came across some reviews about a book published last year, You Are What You Love, by James K. A. Smith. While I have not read the book, what was said about it prompted me to engage in further reflection. I pass on to you two of the comments made and my ponderings. Interestingly, the …
In August 2014, the militant group ISIS, seized the town of Bartella, Iraq, forcing the Christians there to leave on the threat of death. This year, government forces had retaken the city. This opened the way for the Assyrian Orthodox Christian citizens of the town to return to their hometown. It was December 24, and …
What is Christmas all about? It seems we always raise that question every year. And we may have a ready answer: Jesus is the reason for the season. We know the words of the correct answer. Yet, somehow, when we take an honest look at our actions, how we celebrate Christmas, we just might discover …
A healthy heart manifests itself in a robust life. One will be able to accomplish daily tasks with relative ease. And when difficult and stressful circumstances come, one may find the energy to face the challenges with determination and grace. Daniel worshipped the Lord with a willful and a grateful heart. We learn that “three …
Another tragedy. A chartered plane crashes in the Andes. Aboard were 77 people, including a whole soccer team from Brazil. The crash killed all but six of everyone on board. What makes it even more tragic is that the crash could easily have been avoided. Apparently, the pilot somehow made the decision to bypass a …
In sports news last week was the recurring theme of the GS Warriors’ “assist streak.” In their last game against the LA Lakers, they “have hit the 30-assist mark for the 10th straight time, which is the second-longest such streak in NBA history.” And this assist streak somehow corresponds to their 10-game winning streak. In …
I finally completed all the required safety checks and paperwork to get my car reregistered. What a journey it was! About a month ago I was involved in an auto accident. My insurance adjuster assessed my car to be a total loss, even though the damage was mostly cosmetic in nature. That is, it did …
With the information explosion, it appears we are developing a sense of entitlement to all and every information available. We have become suspicious of people, especially the government, who seem to have hidden information. And we demand “full disclosure.” The recently concluded presidential campaigns were characterized by much “exposure” of unsavory or unethical behavior by …
