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).

      Upon entering the veterinarian’s office recently, one of the ladies behind the counter asked “May I help you?” I responded that I had come to pick up Max Hall. Almost immediately the announcement was made over the intercom “I need Max Hall from B21.”

      Today (February 28) is my oldest son’s birthday. Thirty-three years ago, my wife and I named him “Daniel” which means “God is my judge.” Since his birth we have called him “Dan.” Two weeks ago (Valentine’s Day) was the 30^th birthday of my second-born son. We named him “Andrew” meaning “manly, strong, courageous.” We liked the name “Andrew” because the disciple bearing that name brought people to Jesus (boy with loaves and fish, Simon Peter, some Greeks). Since his birth, we have called him “Drew.”

      Expressing her love for Romeo rather than for his Montague name or the family bearing this name, Juliet raised the question “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose…by any other name would still smell as sweet.” Through use of metaphor, Juliet opined that names carry no substance or significance serving only as a simple appellation.

      Happy Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day reportedly was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD in honor of the Christian martyr St. Valentine. This day is well-marked on calendars and represents a focused opportunity to express our love for family and special people in our lives. Typically these expressions of love include offering heartfelt, albeit non-sacrificial, gifts of chocolate, cards, and flowers.

      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).

      Upon entering the veterinarian’s office recently, one of the ladies behind the counter asked “May I help you?” I responded that I had come to pick up Max Hall. Almost immediately the announcement was made over the intercom “I need Max Hall from B21.”

      Today (February 28) is my oldest son’s birthday. Thirty-three years ago, my wife and I named him “Daniel” which means “God is my judge.” Since his birth we have called him “Dan.” Two weeks ago (Valentine’s Day) was the 30^th birthday of my second-born son. We named him “Andrew” meaning “manly, strong, courageous.” We liked the name “Andrew” because the disciple bearing that name brought people to Jesus (boy with loaves and fish, Simon Peter, some Greeks). Since his birth, we have called him “Drew.”

      Expressing her love for Romeo rather than for his Montague name or the family bearing this name, Juliet raised the question “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose…by any other name would still smell as sweet.” Through use of metaphor, Juliet opined that names carry no substance or significance serving only as a simple appellation.

      Happy Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day reportedly was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD in honor of the Christian martyr St. Valentine. This day is well-marked on calendars and represents a focused opportunity to express our love for family and special people in our lives. Typically these expressions of love include offering heartfelt, albeit non-sacrificial, gifts of chocolate, cards, and flowers.