In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. Acts 9:36 (NIV) Caught off guard, I turned away so she couldn’t see my face. My friend didn’t mean to be malicious, but her careless words left me seething. What did she…
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. —Matthew 6:20 (NIV) “This will be your legacy.” These words referred to the last major project I completed in my role as an Instructional Coach. Just before I retired, I had…
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.—Philippians 4:12b-13 (NIV) Years ago I traded my career as a CPA for a job as an au pair (nanny)…
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV) A father once told his young daughter that being a Christian means Jesus lives inside of us. “But Daddy,” she exclaimed, “Jesus is bigger than me. If He lived inside of me, He would poke…
Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” —James 4:15 (NIV) Snapping the leash onto my dog’s collar, we stepped into the fresh morning air. As we rounded the house, I stopped in my tracks. On the horizon, I could see mist rising from…
As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.—Matthew 9:9 (NIV) Incredulous, my friend shook her head. “I just can’t believe your family doesn’t go to church.” “Oh, I don’t mind,” I replied, “This…
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. — Luke 10:41-42a (NIV) Dabbing my eye with the wet paper towel, I waited for the tears to wash away my newly applied mascara. Why did this happen? I didn’t have to wonder for…
“No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” — Luke 9:62 (NIV) Sighing, I looked at my phone. Three am. Once again my thoughts began replaying the painful memories of my past mistakes and regrets. I know I’ve said and done helpful…
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. — James 1:2-4 (NIV) Watching the family interact, I couldn’t help but chuckle….
