The Transforming Power of Observing Dawn and Dusk

I often drove my kids to school when they were young. Through the years we developed particular rhythms, habits, and traditions. One tradition that remained throughout elementary, middle, and high school years was the quotation of this Scripture: “From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭113:3‬ ‭ESV‬‬ There are few things more beautiful and majestic than dawn and dusk. They happen every day, but we often take them for granted. We often plow through our daily and weekly schedules without… Read More

I Have Good News and Bad News

The word “gospel” means “good news.” But the good news is preceded by bad news. For a person to receive the free salvation that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, he or she must first face the sobering reality of their own sinfulness, wickedness, and brokenness. If a person is never convinced (convicted) of their sin, they will never cry out for a Savior. That’s why the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to first convince people of their sin (that’s the bad news), then convince them of righteousness through Jesus (that’s… Read More

The Gift of Silence in a Noisy World

Life is noisy. Kids are noisy. Co-workers are noisy. The news is noisy. Restaurants are noisy. Traffic is noisy. We are so accustomed to noise that we often avoid silence. We have music playing while we read. We leave the tv on while we're at home. We sometimes turn on fans or even phone apps that make "white noise" so we can sleep with noise. Even our church services avoid silence. When is the last time you were silent?When is the last time you turned off the noise? True, you aren't able… Read More

One Step Away From a Changed Life

A good friend of mine, Pastor Jerry Dirmann, recently said, "If you change your prayer life, you'll change your life." Prayer is a fundamental, but often under-utilized, difference maker in a believer's life. Not only is Prayer a privilege, it is our responsibility. Prayer invites and permits God's will to be done here "on earth as it is in heaven." Peter admonished believers with these words: “The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4:7‬ ‭ESV‬‬ Here are some… Read More

How Would You Describe Your Pace of Life?

How would you describe your pace of life? Is your mind overloaded? Is your heart overwhelmed? When is the last time you felt comepletely at peace? Do you have to escape from your daily life to find a sense of rest and refreshment? Although God created us to be strong and resiliant, to work hard and to push through difficulties, He also created a rhythm of life that helps us live at an optimal level. That rhythm includes rest.  Musicians understand the value of a “rest”. Musical scores not only tell the… Read More