Second Chances: The Thief on the Cross
While Jesus was hanging on the cross he had a thief on each side of him. One thief denied him and the other believed. He said to the disbelieving thief, “Have you no fear…
In the Struggle: A Milestone Birthday
I usually discuss my struggle with my weight and learning to live a healthy lifestyle on Tuesday’s. Today, I want to discuss a different kind of struggle. This month is a milestone birthday for me. …
Rebel to Redeemed: Finally Redeemed
By summer 2008 life had become very difficult. Nothing I did was right for Duncan and Mary. I’d been through numerous jobs and I had no friends. I was living on an emotional roller coaster…
Behind the Hymn: For the Beauty of the Earth
Folliott Sandford Pierpoint was born in Bath, England in 1835. After being educated at Queens College in Cambridge, he taught at Somersetshire College. He contributed hymns to various publications and published at least two song…
Book Review: Once Beyond a Time
Ann Tatlock proves once again that she is a master story teller with her latest book, Once Beyond a Time. The story takes place in 1968 Black Mountain, North Carolina. Sheldon and Meg Crane move…
Second Chances: Peter
Peter was a disciple of Jesus, but even then he was often blinded from the truth Jesus taught. Simon was a fisherman when Jesus called him and his brothers to be “fishers of men.” Jesus…
Rebel to Redeemed: Nowhere to Turn
The abuse only escalated and with it my self-esteem and self-confidence were slowly eroded. In time I lost everything I had. I was all alone and had no one to turn, other than to Duncan*…
Behind the Hymn: I Stand Amazed in the Presence
The other day my grandmother asked me about the song, I Stand Amazed In the Presence. This hymn, which is also known as How Marvelous or My Savior’s Love, was written by Charles Gabriel. Charles…
Behind the Hymn: I Must Tell Jesus
I was recently discussing this beloved hymn with a family member. However, I can so relate to the story. There have been times when I had no one to tell my sorrows except Jesus. I…
Book Review: The Perils of a Pastor’s Wife
Being a preacher’s wife is never easy, and Nan Trammell Jones lays out some of the hardships and obstacles in The Perils of a Pastor’s Wife. Jones is open and honest about the struggles she…
Second Chances: Prodigal Son
I’ve been sharing my own story as a prodigal, so it seems only fitting to look at the second chance the prodigal son received. The story of the prodigal son is taken from one of…
In the Struggle: 14 Alternatives to Lemon Water
Last week, we discussed the benefits of drinking lemon water. However, I also admitted that I don’t care for the taste of lemons. I know it’s good for you and I’ve…
Rebel to Redeemed:Losing it all
Immediately after moving to be with Duncan*, I discovered he was nothing like I thought or believed. He was nothing like he portrayed himself to be. On top of having to deal with him, I…
Behind the Song: Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting
I had never heard this hymn until recently when I attended the funeral of a dear man of God. He had served as pastor for several churches before being called to the mission field, where…
Book Review: The Incredible Story of You
The Incredible Story of You is a reminder that we all have a story and a purpose in life. However, we cannot allow our past or even our present to define us. Bradley Keen reminds…
Second Chances: Woman Caught in Adultery
Jesus has arrived at the temple and is teaching those that have gathered around, when the scribes and Pharisees approach with a woman caught in adultery. Her name was not recorded for prosperity, but her…
In the Struggle:10 Benefits of Lemon Water
Restaurants usually ask if you would like lemon with that when ordering water to drink. So why lemons? Lemons have numerous nutrients and benefits on the body and our health. So what are some of…
Rebel to Redeemed: Down the Broken Path
After battling with God and begging Him to please allow me to be with Duncan*, I embarked on a long, downhill journey. My relationship with Duncan continued to grow. There were more red flags, but…
Behind the Song: Grace Greater Than Our Sins
We all need more grace to be given and to be shown. This hymn stuck in my mind because I had a resident ask for the song on a regular basis. For a long time…
Book Review: Aurora Teagarden
Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel will air the second Aurora Teagarden mystery tomorrow night. Actually this is the second film, but based on the first book in the series—Real Murders. Aurora “Roe” Teagarden is a…