January, 2015

• 4 January

  Former Pastor: If there is a God, does he even make a difference?

  

  There is much to learn from Ryan Bell, former pastor, and current “Speaker, Author, Teacher, Activist at the Intersection of Faith, Justice and the Common Good” – as he describes himself.  A passion for learning and doing well emanates from every effort of this forty-plus ‘religious nomad.’  Seemingly that longing ...

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• 4 January

  The 11th Resolution

  

  New year, new you… right? As the ball dropped over Times Square, more than 40% of the population said farewell to late-night snacking, traded a little extra sleep for early-morning sessions at the gym, made promises to their savings accounts, and pledged to kick smoking to the curb. According to ...

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• 4 January

  Taste And See New Wine

  

  Sometimes there are moments of rare ecstasy. And, then there are once-in-a-lifetime moments that re-define history. Talking about Jesus’ mission on earth, involving a radical break from traditions of man, but not the laws of God. The stage is set for Him to fulfill every jot and tittle of Mosiac ...

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• 4 January

  Music: Do the Lyrics Matter?

  

  Music is a powerful thing. It can turn the cowardly into the courageous in the form of a battle hymn or it can emotionally cripple us. Today, I want to go on a little musical journey with you and test whether lyrics matter in music and I’m going to measure ...

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• 4 January

  Teens Helping Others – Volunteer Opportunities

  

  The great thing about volunteering is that you get to choose whatever interests you. With so many options, there is something for everyone. When you’re doing something you enjoy, it doesn’t seem like drudgery. If money is short, you can donate your time. Focusing on others can also relieve anxiety ...

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• 4 January

  Clearing the Clutter Of My Heart

  

  Winter vacation seems to be the time when items in my house gain a little more of my attention than the usual routine. For example, toys that my kids no longer play with may take a vacation into a storage tub or they may go on a donation trip. Other ...

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• 3 January

  How To Cultivate Self-Discipline

  

  Inspiration is a beautiful thing, there is no question about it. The problem is this … it just does not come around often enough.  Some days can feel like an up hill battle and waiting around for the inspiration to strike is a waste of life.  There are ways to build within you (just like a muscle!) ...

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• 3 January

  Our Hope: Giving Throughout the Year

  

  ‘Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.’ Hebrews 13:16 (NIV) As Christians, it should be our joy to share with others, especially with those who are truly less fortunate.  As God gives to us, we, therefore, should give to others. ...

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• 3 January

  Sale: Best Price of the Year

  

  I don’t know about you but the words “best price of the year” cause me to perk up. I may have been half listening before but suddenly, I’m all ears. Five minutes ago I was not even considering purchasing this item, but now I know I desperately need it. I ...

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• 3 January

  Dad, Can I have ten bucks?

  

  The kids may be grown, but there is a scene played out in many homes on a regular basis: Caller-id told me who was on the other end.  Experience told me what the caller wanted.   “Dad, I really hate to ask.  BUT is there anyway you could let me have ...

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