HOPE FOR TODAY: Christmas and the pursuit of truth

“Passion for truth.” That is what I wrote down in my Bible some years ago after reading Luke 1:1-4. This is the beginning section of a detailed account of the life of Jesus Christ, starting with an historical record of the Christmas story.

OUT TO PASTOR: Christmas is more than jingle, jingle

Down through the years, I have celebrated more Christmases than I want to let on. It’s not that I’m old; I just haven’t died yet. The thing about Christmas was all the stuff I was getting. The first Christmas I remember, I got a bunch of presents under the tree.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: On staying positive (when you really don’t feel like it)

Welcome to the “front porch.” This past week a couple of friends wrote and asked if we could write some on ‘positivity and purpose.’ In their cases, they have been going through the recent loss of their dad.

OUT TO PASTOR: It was a Shoofly Pie moment

During holiday seasons, I enjoy indulging in special food. My favorite during this time of year is the Shoofly Pie. Nothing hits the spot quite like this. I don’t remember when I had my first shoofly pie, I only focus on my next piece.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Every day was Thanksgiving at Grandma’s

Good week to all. Welcome to the “front porch.”   – November 2011 – We’ve all eaten enough turkey and dressing and cranberry sauce and pumpkin, pecan, and apple pies to last us ‘til Christmas.

OUT TO PASTOR: It’s all over but the lying

The one thing I don’t like is when somebody deliberately lies to me. Trust me; this has happened quite a few times in my life. Sometimes, by accident, they say something that isn’t true; they just got their facts mixed up. Other times, it’s a ploy to deceive me and get something from me.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: Enjoy your thanks-giving even if it’s different than before

Good week to all. Welcome to the “front porch.” Aren’t you glad it’s Thanksgiving! I thought it’d never come. You understand.  There’s just something special about Thanksgiving, just in normal years. I know that for so many this year is different than before.

OUT TO PASTOR: Being nice does have its rewards

It seems that every week of mine is “one of those weeks.” Just when I think everything was looking fine, I discovered I was looking in the wrong direction. I should know better than thinking. Several problems developed with my vehicle, and I had to take it to the garage.

FRONT-PORCH GOSPEL: A talk about a brother (part 2)

Good week to all. Welcome to the “front porch.” An open letter to three girls – and one more. Dear Lauren, Brit, and Andrea, We share these thoughts to you three girls as you are absorbing the blow of your dad and my friend’s leaving us.

OUT TO PASTOR: Bug! Bug! Where’s the Bug?

As far back as I can remember, every time I would leave the house, the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage would say, “Be careful. Drive safely.” It’s as though she doesn’t think I could drive carefully without giving me some instructions. I think it has become just a routine for her.