Feasting on the Word
Sometimes the people who have the least to be thankful for, like prisoners, are the ones who appreciate even the smallest gesture of kindness. Incarcerated individuals live in a world where identity is reduced to a number and hope is rationed. It’s a realm where they’ve been stripped of agency, dignity, and connection. When the Jailbird Ministry reaches into that world—not with judgment, but with grace, it’s a reminder they’re still seen, still worthy, still redeemable. The Word of God is often an inmate’s first step to reconnect with God, purpose, and family. Isaiah 55:11 says, “so [...]
Speak of the Devil
It haunts me that consumers are expected to spend a record high of $13.1 billion dollars this year to celebrate Halloween. 196 million Americans will hand out candy, wear a “dress to impress” costume, and decorate their home or yard. People will also carve pumpkins, throw or attend a party, and visit a haunted house. The top costume for children is an action hero or princess, the top pick for adults, a witch or vampire. Pets will not be left behind, with 10% of shoppers dressing their pet as a pumpkin, hot dog, or bumblebee. Spooky trick-or-treaters [...]
If the Shoe Fits …
I’ve never considered myself a bona fide shoe aficionado. To me, they’re just a practical necessity. They keep my feet out of the elements, prevent me from stubbing my toe, and stop me from putting my foot in my mouth! But after a knee replacement, I learned the right shoes can keep my body in alignment, provide proper support, and help me to feel my best. So, there I was at one of the big-box stores, looking for new sneakers amongst the swarms of children getting ready for another school year. In the beginning, humans wore shoes [...]
The Best-Selling Book of All Time
In my teens, I taught a Bible-study club for preschoolers, aptly name the Sunbeams. One of their favorite songs was “The B-I-B-L-E.” The children clapped their hands and hopscotched from one foot to the other as they sang enthusiastically: The B-I-B-L-E, Yes ,that’s the book for me; I stand alone on the Word of God, The B-I-B-L-E. Without question, the Bible is fundamental to my faith; its principles have guided me throughout my life. With the invention of the 15th century printing press, the Gutenberg Bible marked the start of printed books in the West, making the [...]
