WHEN THE FRUIT IS NOT YET RIPE

As I look out at our small orchard of fig, cherry, apple, nectarine, and peach trees in our front yard, I can see the first buds of fruit forming. Each tree has a different process of maturation and fruit bearing. The first appearance of a coming harvest is now taking...

INSTINCTIVE RELATIONSHIPS

In the last few weeks, we have seen what can happen when people don’t want to talk, but instead, bring harm to those with whom they disagree. Having a conversation with people of another opinion can get you killed, as it did with Charlie Kirk. Both sides can...

IT TAKES TIME

Offering the love of God to people who do not yet know that love can take time to reap its intended harvest. Those who have developed patience regarding God’s timing will see results not imagined by those who have not yet committed themselves to the patience required...

ASKING IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Each season of life has a specific assignment. To discover that assignment is to become empowered in ways we might not realize in the beginning when questions about that assignment are first asked.  I remember my pastor telling a group of us young and yet-to-be...

A PRECISE AND TIMELY WORD

Jan and I were discussing the Church and how each of us has a unique part to play. As we spoke, I saw the image of a symphony conducting a concert. There were all kinds of instruments present. Violins stroked beautiful notes along with clarinets, saxophones, oboes,...