“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.” (Luke 10:41-42) Many of us are seeking more balance in our lives, so much so that it is one of our most popular resolutions for the New Year. Our yearning for more peace in our lives doesn’t surprise me because we live in our world where peace is yearned everywhere. A college professor of mine who told our freshman health class to be sure we had eight hours of […]

“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven’.” (Matthew 19:14) I remember that day like it was yesterday. It was a cold January day, 51 years ago. And while I was only in the second grade, I knew a lot more about what was going on than they thought I did. As I looked across the school playground, I saw one of my mama’s best friends talking to my teacher. I just stood […]

“Do your utmost to come before Winter.” (2 Timothy 4:21) Now that Christmas is over, our thoughts quickly turn to the year ahead. The truth is January can be one of the most depressing months of the year. Credit card bills come in from all that Christmas overspending, and winter, if not already here, is rapidly approaching, which means that we have very few days over the next couple of months that will permit us to pursue all those outdoor activities that we enjoy. Winter doesn’t have to […]

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:34) I heard a radio program several years ago arguing that Santa Claus had taken the Christ right out of Christmas. The truth is the real story of Santa Claus has gotten lost in the commercialization of Christmas, a testament of sorts to the genius of American retailers who wanted to be sure that moms and dads didn’t forget them at Christmas either. The irony behind all this truth is the story of St. Nicholas offers parents a […]