Instead of sheltering passengers waiting for trains, a former railroad depot now harbors people hearing God’s Word. Rev. Everett Henes, pastor of Hillsdale OPC in Hillsdale, MI, relates how the church utilizes this newly-purchased unique structure, which consists of the original brick building and a newer steel addition. “I believe the train depot portion of … Continue reading Hillsdale OPC dedicates former depot
Beginning, middle or end?
How do you start a novel? Every writer knows that each novel should include a definite beginning, middle, and end. But did you know those are also your starting options? Usually I think of a sentence that seems like the beginning of a novel and it grows from there. This sunrise method works well for exploratory … Continue reading Beginning, middle or end?
Cultivating amazement for God’s grace: Rev. Robert De Vries
While Rev. Robert W. DeVries has officially retired twice, he continues to be active in the ministry. He served for several years as the Clerk of Classis Eastern US of the URCNA, and still fills the vacant pulpit of the New Haven URC in Vermont a few times per month. Christian Renewal recently interviewed him … Continue reading Cultivating amazement for God’s grace: Rev. Robert De Vries
High Rock, Psalm 61
Word pictures create images in our minds that make our reading come alive. Enlivened writing is more easily internalized and becomes more personal. And Psalm 61 pulses with images that increase our awareness of God as our protector. The ESV title for the psalm is "Lead Me to the Rock" with a notation "To the choirmaster: … Continue reading High Rock, Psalm 61
Where can we find atonement?
Storyteller Susan R. Lawrence portrays biblical and historical characters in engrossing presentations; she also writes engaging novels. She's a retired special education teacher who has published two family devotionals, contributed to three anthologies, and written many articles for various Christian publications. Today Glenda Mathes interviews her in connection with the current launch of her new novel … Continue reading Where can we find atonement?
Fly with Shutterfly
Shutterfly has a great website for creating personalized photo projects. Using the site's helpful templates, I've created memory books, composed greeting cards, and crafted family calendars. I've ordered magnets and mugs. Like most online companies, Shutterfly sends the occasional promotional email. I don't mind, especially since the messages often include great offers. But a glitch earlier this … Continue reading Fly with Shutterfly
Spurgeon’s turns
Charles H. Spurgeon has become known as the Prince of Preachers for good reason. The 19th century minister had an amazing ability to make biblical truth come alive. He knew how to turn a phrase. Many years ago we purchased his classic Morning and Evening devotional. While I recall reading it enough to wear page edges and tear the dust … Continue reading Spurgeon’s turns
NAPARC changes by-laws and constitution
When the North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council (NAPARC), met on November 19-20, 2013, in Flat Rock, NC, it adopted new by-laws and approved changes to its constitution. The new by-laws are already in effect, but changes in the constitution must be approved by NAPARC member churches. Those actions arose from a report by the … Continue reading NAPARC changes by-laws and constitution
Matt’s back!
Way back in January, I wrote of completing the second draft of Matthew Muddles Through and my hope to pare down its word count (you can read that post here). Since then I've spent most of my time concentrating on preparing presentations for an intense speaking trip (which you can read about here). But after my return … Continue reading Matt’s back!
Looking up
A rare rainbow phenomenon appeared over central Iowa yesterday afternoon, and I saw it. Driving south over Red Rock Dam, I noticed a long, low cloud shimmering with rainbow colors. I took off my sunglasses because I couldn't believe what I was seeing. Sun rays glimmered through the cloud in the awesome way that always reminds … Continue reading Looking up
Glenda Faye Mathes 