Inspirational

OUT TO PASTOR: Punxsutawney Phil is no politician, or is he?

 Growing up in Pennsylvania, one of my yearly attractions was Punxsutawney Phil.According to the legend, Punxsutawney Phil could predict the future. If he sees his shadow and returns to his hole, it means he has predicted six more weeks of winter-like weather.

OUT TO PASTOR: Punxsutawney Phil is no politician – or is he?

 Growing up in Pennsylvania, one of my yearly attractions was Punxsutawney Phil.According to the legend, Punxsutawney Phil could predict the future. If he sees his shadow and returns to his hole, it means he has predicted six more weeks of winter-like weather.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Two shook the rafters

 Welcome to the “front-porch.”As we write, it is Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.Ice and snow are on the ground, and a good part of the country has come to a standstill for a few days due to a 2,000-mile expanse of icy terrain.

OUT TO PASTOR: It’s not a mess, it’s my creative décor

 The greatest joy I have every morning is not only getting up – but also stepping in my office.When I retired, I had to have a room built at the back of our house for my office. I think it was one of the best things I’ve ever done.Walking into that office is a wonderful experience for me.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: ‘His Eye is on the Sparrow’

 Welcome to the “front porch.”As you read along in the Bible, one of the greatest truths that you will come across is that of the providence of God.I’ve long felt that “providence” is the most important word not in the Bible, at least not in the Bible referring to God.

OUT TO PASTOR: What it was – was a coughing and sneezing contest

 The New Year started rather nicely for us.After all the exciting holiday activities, it was nice to settle into a more relaxed frame of mind.We had a whole week before us with nothing really to do and no place to go.What could be better?

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: It is well!

 Welcome to the “front porch.”One sublime feeling that seems to be more common beginning in the cold days of December is that of peace.

OUT TO PASTOR: An old geezer looking for new tricks

 Although the year is new, I’m still an old geezer.I think I know what geezer means, but I’m not sure what the definition of “old” is.One person’s old is another person’s youth. Believe me, I don’t know the difference.