Let’s Talk: Frustration

Short update: First, there have not been any posts in the past week because I have been sick. On top of being sick, the new meds that I am on for my diabetes are not acting as they should which is creating an unforeseen side effect that we are trying to get under control. Second, …

Devotional: A Healing Gift

Scripture: Mark 1:30-31 Now Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began serving them. Reflection: My youngest son was born with a congenital heart defect. I spent …

Meet Zec Ackerman

  The man that entered the classroom several minutes after the bell had already rang was not the polished Master anyone had expected. His boots were worn and dusty, his jeans were thin at the knees and the hems were caked in mud. His light brown hair was newly trimmed just past his shoulders. And …

Bible Study: Mark 1:21-28

Opening Prayer: Lord be with us as we continue studying your story in order to build a stronger relationship with you. Scripture: Mark 1:21-28 They went to Capernaum; and when the sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not …

Devotional: Teaching with Authority

Scripture: Mark 1:27 They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching - with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” Reflection: When I first started college, I was a history major. I ended up getting a B.A. in English and a minor …

Shayla’s Prince

I wasn’t homeless. I just liked to care for myself. So, in the winter when the morning air is cold and crisp and hunting and trapping becomes more difficult, I went ice fishing. The village nearby place makeshift shacks for those who needed them and I usually claimed one for the winter. The shack was …

Bible Study: Mark 1:14-20

Opening Prayer: This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24) Scripture: Mark 1:14-20 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe …

Devotional: The Calling Begins

Scripture: Mark 1:17-18 And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. Reflection: Recently, my parents moved to Arkansas from Texas to be near their grandchildren. My father loves fishing and I learned to like peace and enjoy the challenge. …

The Sibyl’s Announcement

A mousy girl with short, straight dull brown hair and sparkling crystal sea-foam green eyes peeked around the door frame. She barely whispered the name of the girl sitting at a desk with her back toward the door. “Imp?” The long, straight, black hair dragged across the floor as she turned to look at the …

Bible Study: Mark 1:1-13

Opening Prayer: Thank you, my Lord, for another day. I (we) come before you, God, to study your Word, to grow in faith and understanding. Be with me (us), send your Spirit so that we may not drift astray. Scripture: Mark 1:1-13 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. …