My four-year old great-nephew likes clothes, costumes, toys, and other items associated with popular “super heroes” such as Batman, Spiderman, and Super Man. Currently, Spiderman appears to be his favorite inasmuch as he wore a Spidey costume at his birthday party a few weeks ago.

      Stomp is the internationally acclaimed creation of Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas that features an impressive blend of percussion, rhythmic movement, and non-verbal comedy. I had the opportunity to see this unique production recently in Jackson.

      Once upon a time lived three Christian friends whose nicknames were “So What?”, “Big Deal!” and “Who Cares?” Each friend had received their rather odd nicknames because of the typical response that they uttered when confronted with a pressing need or opportunity to lend a helping hand in a particular situation.

      The ordinance of baptism is a beautiful symbol of new life in Christ as the believer identifies with Jesus and proclaims the gospel message of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4). Every time I have participated in baptism, whether as a pastor or as an observer, I am reminded of the collective response of one particular church with which I am familiar.

      Unlike a lot of folks, I enjoy cutting grass. Inasmuch as I do not apply weed-control fertilizer regularly and consistently, however, my lawn consists primarily of weeds and wildflowers (think weeds here also) in early Spring.  More specifically, thistles of all shapes and sizes are scattered abundantly throughout the yard. And, while inviting and somewhat attractive due to the flowering portion at the top of the plant, the leaves contain sharp, needle-like thorns that are no respecter of persons and quite painful to the touch.

      A lack of tangible work experience is a challenge that often confronts soon-to-be college graduates when exploring employment opportunities. The excitement that comes from a job description that seemingly outlines a position for which a young person believes they are well-suited can be squelched quickly due to the amount of the required experience presented by the prospective employer. Having 5 – 7 years of a specific type of experience is nearly impossible for a 21 or 22 year old.

      “What is being taught at home?” was the question posed on a church sign that I observed recently. Inasmuch as home education or “home schooling” has been growing in popularity for many years, I suppose that some passersby might initially consider the question on the church sign to be pointing to the growing trend to teach the three “Rs” (Reading, Writing, and ‘Rithmetic) and more at home.

      Children are important! Our attitude toward children is important! Attention given to children is important! Unfortunately, many cultures do not always value children or allow them to occupy a place of priority in terms of attitude toward and attention given to them. Made in God’s image, children are a gift and blessing from him (Psalm 127:3) who Jesus presented as a model for faith and greatness in the kingdom of heaven (Luke 18:15-17; Matthew 18:4; Luke 9:46-48).

      My four-year old great-nephew likes clothes, costumes, toys, and other items associated with popular “super heroes” such as Batman, Spiderman, and Super Man. Currently, Spiderman appears to be his favorite inasmuch as he wore a Spidey costume at his birthday party a few weeks ago.

      Stomp is the internationally acclaimed creation of Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas that features an impressive blend of percussion, rhythmic movement, and non-verbal comedy. I had the opportunity to see this unique production recently in Jackson.

      Once upon a time lived three Christian friends whose nicknames were “So What?”, “Big Deal!” and “Who Cares?” Each friend had received their rather odd nicknames because of the typical response that they uttered when confronted with a pressing need or opportunity to lend a helping hand in a particular situation.

      The ordinance of baptism is a beautiful symbol of new life in Christ as the believer identifies with Jesus and proclaims the gospel message of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4). Every time I have participated in baptism, whether as a pastor or as an observer, I am reminded of the collective response of one particular church with which I am familiar.

      Unlike a lot of folks, I enjoy cutting grass. Inasmuch as I do not apply weed-control fertilizer regularly and consistently, however, my lawn consists primarily of weeds and wildflowers (think weeds here also) in early Spring.  More specifically, thistles of all shapes and sizes are scattered abundantly throughout the yard. And, while inviting and somewhat attractive due to the flowering portion at the top of the plant, the leaves contain sharp, needle-like thorns that are no respecter of persons and quite painful to the touch.

      A lack of tangible work experience is a challenge that often confronts soon-to-be college graduates when exploring employment opportunities. The excitement that comes from a job description that seemingly outlines a position for which a young person believes they are well-suited can be squelched quickly due to the amount of the required experience presented by the prospective employer. Having 5 – 7 years of a specific type of experience is nearly impossible for a 21 or 22 year old.

      “What is being taught at home?” was the question posed on a church sign that I observed recently. Inasmuch as home education or “home schooling” has been growing in popularity for many years, I suppose that some passersby might initially consider the question on the church sign to be pointing to the growing trend to teach the three “Rs” (Reading, Writing, and ‘Rithmetic) and more at home.

      Children are important! Our attitude toward children is important! Attention given to children is important! Unfortunately, many cultures do not always value children or allow them to occupy a place of priority in terms of attitude toward and attention given to them. Made in God’s image, children are a gift and blessing from him (Psalm 127:3) who Jesus presented as a model for faith and greatness in the kingdom of heaven (Luke 18:15-17; Matthew 18:4; Luke 9:46-48).