The Messiah – more than just background music?

In December of 1984, during my junior year at Lakeview Centennial High School, the a cappella choir was invited to sing George Frideric Handel’s, Messiah, in its entirety with our rival school (South Garland) at the newly opened Garland Performing Arts Center. Many of us were friends from earlier days at O’Banion Middle School, so we were excited to … Continue reading The Messiah – more than just background music? →

The Wonder of Christmas

Christmas time is here Happiness and cheer Fun for all that children call Their favorite time of the year... One of the challenges of Christmas is letting God speak to your soul rather than simply lull you to sleep. The familiarity of Christmas stories, songs, and scriptures can detour your heart down an emotional street, … Continue reading The Wonder of Christmas →

Is God fair?

All Photos by James Langford; langfordphotography.com At an early age, we develop a strong sense of fairness. Not long after uttering the longed-for words, “Momma" or "Dadda” comes “mine.” And then, a little while later we learn to pout, “That’s not fair!” The question of fairness arises whenever a coach makes a decision to start … Continue reading Is God fair? →

God planned it for good

Two boys were walking along a street when they encountered a large dog blocking the sidewalk. “Don’t be afraid,” one of the boys told his more timid friend. “Look at his tail, how it wags. When a dog wags his tail he won’t bite you.” “That may be,” admitted the other, “but look at that … Continue reading God planned it for good →

Forgiving Others

Inigo Montoya from "The Princess Bride" "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die." For over 20 years, Inigo Montoya (The Princess Bride, 1987) was in the revenge business. His father was a great sword-maker who worked for the king. When a six-fingered man appeared and requested a special sword, … Continue reading Forgiving Others →

Waiting . . .

No one likes to wait. At least, I don't. We want instant access through instant messaging and Instagram. We expect immediate results from our search engine - at least 763,000,000 results in 0.34 seconds. We live in a world of fast food, fast lanes, and faster downloads through our wireless network. It's not complicated - … Continue reading Waiting . . . →

Thick-skinned

Criticism seems to be a normal part of life that we never really, fully appreciate. At an early age, we try to teach our kids to accept criticism and to grow from it. We tell them to be "thick-skinned." We explain that they should let harsh words roll off them "like water on a duck." … Continue reading Thick-skinned →

God is our Secure Defense

"God is our refuge and strength, a Helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore, we will not be afraid." Psalm 46:1-2 Twelve years after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the volatile landscape of the world doesn't look much different, but we can still find safety by trusting God in times … Continue reading God is our Secure Defense →

But God…

I am overwhelmed, but God is in control. I am alone, but God is with me. I am confused, but God understands. I am attacked, but God has my back. I am frail, but God never fails. I am hurt, but God heals. I am betrayed, but God plans it for good. I am tired, … Continue reading But God… →

Spiritual Fitness in God’s Gym

As we begin a new school year, there are so many things to keep our kids (and us) cRaZy BUSY. So let’s make sure that all the good things of homework, band rehearsals, football practices, piano lessons, etc. don’t squeeze out the most important thing - relationships – especially our relationship with God. Let's make … Continue reading Spiritual Fitness in God’s Gym →