In the aftermath of the mass shooting at Sutherland Springs Baptist Church, there’s been plenty of blame and finger-pointing. There’s also been something else: People mocking those praying for the situation. This derisive attitude toward prayer is nothing new, but it may stir up doubts as to the effectiveness of prayer or the power of… Continue reading For Those Questioning the Effectiveness of Prayer after the Sutherland Springs Shooting
Tag: compassion
The Flawed Forgiveness Question
Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." ~ Matthew 18.21-22, NKJV Can't you just see the apostles doing the math? (Obviously they didn't… Continue reading The Flawed Forgiveness Question
Depression: The Big Conundrum
This is part 3 of the series "Invisible Illnesses." To read the previous post, click here. The heavy beat of drums and the wail of electric guitars blared through small white earbuds. Her cold, trembling fingers pressed them deeper into her ears, attempting to drown the screaming and thumping echoing down the hallway. Another uncontrollable tantrum. A tantrum… Continue reading Depression: The Big Conundrum
Invisible but deadly
He cradled his head in his rough, battle-scarred hands, breathing heavily. The accelerated pace of his heart drummed so loudly he could hear nothing else. Sweat beaded on his forehead as blood pounded in his temples. He inhaled deeply, attempting to calm himself. He was thankful to have found this temporary refuge, even if it was a… Continue reading Invisible but deadly
What the World Needs Now
Some songs make me cringe. It's not necessarily the lyrics---although cringe-worthy lyrics abound. Often it's the style of singing or instrumentation. Sometimes it's an associated memory. For instance, whenever I hear Andy Williams' voice belt out, "It's the most wonderful time of the year!" I can't help but groan inwardly. I associate it with disgruntled black friday… Continue reading What the World Needs Now
The Trouble with Comparing Pain.
Over a month ago, I read some comments on a Facebook post discussing the damaging effects of vaccines. As is common with all vaccine-related discussions, the comments were awash with both sides of the debate. There is always someone bashing "anti-vaxxers" as being anti-science/stupid/ignorant/hateful/child-abusers/fill-in-the-blank-with-an-insult. One comment read, "I would rather live with a child that has autism than to have my child die of whooping cough."
What are we holding on to? (Day 16 of the #encourage Marathon)
As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. ~ James 5.10-11, ESV Welcome to mile-marker 16 of… Continue reading What are we holding on to? (Day 16 of the #encourage Marathon)
The need for Compassion (Comparison Cure #4)
This is the fifth post in the series on Comparison Cures. To read the previous post, click here. Jenny steeled herself and walked purposefully through the familiar front door. The cozy little house was already buzzing with the chatter of women. Jenny plastered a smile on her face, determined not to be the dark cloud… Continue reading The need for Compassion (Comparison Cure #4)
Stuck, alone and helpless. [The Effective Prayer 9.29.15]
Imagine for a moment being on end-of-life care or severely immobilized. You're stuck in a wheelchair or confined to a hospital bed. You have no driver's license. You don't have the physical capability to get around town at all. You feel like a caged bird. A world that used to brim with possibility is now beyond reach. You can't sally forth on a new adventure unless someone is willing to take you along. You feel stuck. Alone. Helpless.
Elihu's Corner 