The Miracle of Christmas – A Leader we Can Trust

We just completed another contentious election season. A season where each candidate pointed out what was wrong with their opponent and by the time the mud-slinging and accusations were done, I was left yearning for a none of the above choice. While our current political system is lacking, I’m glad to be an American. However, I am more thankful I belong to the kingdom of God. In this kingdom, the...

Preemptive Strike – Day 20

Everyday is Christmas I remember when I was young. On Christmas morning, there was such anticipation to see what gifts awaited us? I was excited that my big family (at that time, I was the youngest of seven) would all get together and laugh. We were loud. My mom was the best cook, so our table always overflowed with delicious food. I miss my big, loud, crazy family gatherings. I...

The Greatest Story Ever Told

The Christmas Story is simply a love story. Not a cheesy, predictable, assembly-line-produced Hallmark love story. No, it is a beautiful, timeless love story for all ages. Its cast consist of relatable, everyday, non-perfect people. People with hopes and dreams, fears and reservations, faith and trust. But like all good stories, it has a Hero. This Hero is flawless, beautiful, kind, generous, compassionate. He was born on the wrong side...

Dream in 2019

Yesterday, I encouraged you to look back at 2018 and record all of the good things that happened. This morning I want to encourage you to look forward to 2019. What are your heart’s desire for 2019? How will you prosper (do better) in your health, your emotions, your finances, your relationships, your spirit? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in this activity and write down your dreams for...

Enter 2019 With Gratitude

Last year, around this time, I was in a funk. I was full of regrets and disappointments about 2017. The Holy Spirit sat me down and helped me develop an attitude of gratitude. Over the next few days, the Holy Spirit reminded me of all the God-things that happened and I wrote them down regardless if it were a major or minor event. I was surprised by the many blessings...

Christmas of Contradiction

Merry Christmas, I pray you had a wonderful and beautiful stress free day, full of love and laughter. This holiday season has felt off to me for some reason. Perhaps it was my declaration to the world, my intent to have a stress free Christmas. I have experienced opposition to my stress free lifestyle. I experienced a financial disappointment in the midst of blessing. I mourned the passing of a...

The Perfect Christmas

Twas the day before Christmas and all through the house women are scurrying preparing for the perfect Christmas Day. Visions of thankful children playing happily with their toys, family members enjoying deep conversations, a perfect dinner spread dance in their heads. Or perhaps your vision is of children screaming and fussing with one another, family members biting comments on your weight and housekeeping skills, and the new recipe a complete...

Combating The Assault Christmas

  Akwardly, my student came to me. It seems I had graded his paper incorrectly in his favor. When he pointed out my error, I said, “Well consider it an early Christmas present.” He said, “but I don’t celebrate Christmas.” With a sarcastic look, I asked, “Well, do you want me to change it?” He quickly took back his paper and said, “No, thank you”, as he quickly walked away...

It’s all about the Bird

Our traditional holiday meal is turkey and cornbread dressing. Now, I know many people find turkey dry, but my turkey is moist and flavorful. Here is the recipe for my #nostressholiday bird. I buy a fresh Butterball turkey. Not sure if it makes a difference but that is where I start. The night before, I place the turkey in a turkey bag, season it really well and let it marinate...