It's called "crop rotation" or "fallow ground" back in Scotland. That's when a farmer allows the land to rest for a year and refresh all the nutrients in the soil. In times of hardship and economic crisis, it's a hard thing to maintain, … Read more
It's finally summer. Hurrah! Like many, I brought out my brand-new sandals bought last year at a closeout. How I rejoiced in cool comfort! Then, "flip flopping" along, out to the garden I went. How good it felt to dig my fingers into the … Read more
I have a favourite cologne. It's kept in a decorative glass container. Each time I've used it, it brings back memories of times past: special occasions, dinners with friends, dress-up times. I've had this cologne for years. It is not a … Read more
It began with a typical Sunday afternoon in 1959 when I was 12 years old. We had company, and the house was bustling with noisy children playing and adults talking, women's voices in concert with the men's. At some point amid the fun and … Read more
Summer has hit! It sizzles. It scorches. It bakes. It fries eggs on asphalt! It's summer! That's why I've been out in the garden digging and weeding. That's why I've been walking behind my power mower, pushing it up and down the lawn. … Read more
Keeping the faith requires a lot of hard work, especially in our society. In contrast to fifty years ago, churches are faced with fierce competition for people to do other things on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. Weekly worship and … Read more
There's that wonderful hymn entitled "I heard the voice of Jesus say" that periodically punctuates worship services. The hymn deals with themes of weariness and rest in the God who provides abundantly for His people. A place of rest, a … Read more
For her seventieth birthday, my wife wanted to go to Las Vegas to see the sights and to take in the Cirque du Soleil show at the Mirage. I was recovering from a very recent right shoulder replacement, which prompted friends to twit [kid] … Read more
I'm sitting here at the weir in Montreat, North Carolina, USA, having my morning coffee. The sound of the water falling over the small dam is very peaceful, and reminds me of Psalm 42. As the water cascades, I feel the presence of God's … Read more