Have you ever wondered why the Shamrock, or 3-leaf clover, is the national flower of Ireland? Patrick was born in the late 4th century in Britain, then a part of the Roman Empire. His father was a deacon in the Christian Church, but Patrick wasn’t very religious. When he was 16 years old, around 405 … Continue reading St. Patrick and the Shamrock
Does God have a sense of humor?
When I lived in the dorms at the University of Washington, I was addicted to late night TV. Just to date myself, this was the era of Johnny Carson and I saw the streaker run past the cameras. My first class was not until 10:30 am and I didn't have much to do once I … Continue reading Does God have a sense of humor?
A Life-Long Dream
When I was in grade school, I read a book about Heinrich Schliemann's discovery of the fabled city of Troy. That experience started a love affair with history and archaeology. My parents grew up in the Great Depression, so I learned to be practical. That meant I got my initial degrees in business and law. … Continue reading A Life-Long Dream
Holocaust Remembrance Day
Over the years, I have read books and watched many documentaries about the Holocaust. They are heart-rending. But the most impactful evidence for me have been personal experiences with Holocaust survivors and their liberators. When I attended Dallas Theological Seminary in the late 90s, I remember going to see Shimon Peres speak at the Dallas … Continue reading Holocaust Remembrance Day
Delayed Gratification
Do you have a bucket list? There certainly are many experiences I would like to have before I die. I have always wanted to go on an archaeological dig in Israel. But a lack of time and money has always held me back. Same problem with all the places I would like to visit - … Continue reading Delayed Gratification
How to Get Started in Digital Missions
The COVID pandemic provides both limits and great opportunities. We may be stuck at home, but everyone is going digital! This week I finished the online Cru training on Core Doctrine. The last module was on the Great Commission, the command of Jesus to go to all the nations and make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). Then, … Continue reading How to Get Started in Digital Missions
Meditation in the Mountains
This past Sunday part of my family went out into the Willipa Hills of Southwest Washington State. The view from one high ridge was spectacular! We saw the Chehalis river valley, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. My heart praised God for the beauty of His creation. My stress level always lowers … Continue reading Meditation in the Mountains
The Peace of God Guards Our Hearts and Minds
"Castillo de San Marcos" by Photo by Sahi S on Unsplash Last month I discussed Philippians 4:6. In that verse, Paul tells us not to worry about anything but to bring our concerns before God. Worry shows a lack of trust in God. Now we look at the next verse which discusses the results of … Continue reading The Peace of God Guards Our Hearts and Minds
Are you worried?
We are living in difficult times. There are protests and political turmoil. We read about persecution around the world, especially Asia and Africa. Many of those same areas are suffering from drought and severe plagues of locusts. This week Mexico suffered an earthquake. And in the midst of all this, we each try to do … Continue reading Are you worried?
My Heart Grieves
Photo courtesy of WBLS News at WBLS.com I have always been saddened when I hear about another black person dying from apparent police brutality. But I noticed a somewhat different reaction upon hearing of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. You see, my grandnephew Daniel married LaPrea last week. Why did this event significantly … Continue reading My Heart Grieves