Most of us have probably prayed the Lord’s Prayer at one time or another. Seriously now, did you really mean what you were praying? . . . and forgive us our debts, as we ourselves have forgiven our debtors. . . For if you forgive others their sins, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. […]
When I was somewhat younger a local pastor committed a sexual sin with a member of his congregation. It was not a good situation, but the church leadership didn’t seem to be doing much about the issue. He was a gifted leader and much of the growth of the church had been built upon his […]
In thinking of bitterness I would venture to guess that most people consider it an issue of being hurt or wronged. And while this is certainly true, there is an interwoven thread that so often colors the dynamics of our interpersonal relationships – CONTROL. Almost from the very beginning of time as we know it, […]
“Imagine there’s no heaven . . . It’s easy if you try . . . No hell below us . . .” Such are the opening words of the opening track of John Lennon’s Imagine album that was released in 1971. Lennon’s desire was to help the human race recognize its oneness apart from the […]
In addition to the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates, western Pennsylvania is home to many Amish families. The Amish are a sect of Christianity that promotes simple living and plain dress. Due to their emphasis on separation from worldliness, they aren’t permitted to drive automobiles or utilize many modern conveniences. While it’s not uncommon to see […]
When I was a kid we had an oak tree growing in our front yard. Over the course of the 17 years we lived in that house the tree went from a small sapling to a mighty giant, dropping acorns everywhere. To think that it all began with a single acorn—a simple seed! As big […]
