For the past couple of weeks our small group has been discussing humility. What does humility look like? Throughout scripture we see the character of God alongside human nature. God is the creator and redeemer. He is holy, righteous, just, merciful and loving. In contrast all people have sinned. We…
In the U.S. state elections this past week abortion was a central issue. Ohio voted to enshrine abortion in their constitution. I am deeply saddened. In 1950 the U.S. fertility rate was 3.5 births per woman. The current fertility rate is 1.78 births per woman. In order to replace/maintain the…
When it snowed on Wednesday, I realized that the mild fall weather was turning towards winter. Thankfully I had brought my potted herbs indoors prior to the snow. It is a blessing to have fresh herbs year around. I have a sunny bay window that is the perfect spot for…
For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:10 The war in Israel is heartbreaking. The situation is complex. As Christians we need to pay attention and…
For many years I worked as a childbirth nurse. Early on in my career I had to clarify my position on life. In 1973 I was in my first job—a labor and delivery unit in a busy hospital. The hospital was associated with a University Medical School. I don’t think…
No one anticipated the brutal attack on Israel by Hamas. How did they break through Israel’s high tech security measures? I listen to the news for short periods of time. It is almost too much to take in. Yet, I am reminded that Jesus spoke about events that we should…
Last week it was a treat to see trees in many shades of color in Upper Michigan. I was also delighted to see some flowers still in bloom—roses and calendula. Calendula is sunshine bright It is also a useful herb. The dried petals of the flower have been called poor…
The book of Revelation gives us a glimpse into God’s plans for his people. John’s vision has symbols and metaphors, but all point to God’s finished work. I am in my second year of study in Revelation. In the book of Hebrews, the author writes about the role of priests.…
Over the past week I encountered Israel in a documentary movie and a book. Our small group went to see Route 60: The Biblical Highway. Although my husband and I have been to Israel and visited places from the southern tip of Israel to the northern edge, we saw some…
The elderberry bushes in my yard have been harvested. I have canned elderberry juice for the winter, and I have berries in the freezer. Elderberry bushes have a long history of use. The flower heads in early summer are beautiful. The flowers can be used to make a cordial that…