We are all "Gideons"

This plaque reminds me of God's gifts

Sitting in our garden window is a plaque from my sister that says, “Faith is not just hoping miracles will happen but recognizing when they do.” Many times God gives us too much to handle alone. This, however, is by design—divine design—to allow for miracles and to keep us from becoming prideful. 

I think of Gideon whose army was reduced from 32,000 to a mere 300 men. God deliberately set Gideon against great odds so he would acknowledge that the miraculous victory came by God’s hand and not by his own. 

Preparing for the Easter feast

We should prepare for the Easter feast externally and internally

This week our children’s swim coach died unexpectedly. Only 28 years old, Joe had just coached a girls’ water polo team the night before his sudden death. He was known for his radiant smile, his teddy-bear hugs, and his belief in every swimmer. We all recognized his distinct-sounding voice heard 'round the pool. Because he coached so many teams in our community, his influence has been felt far and wide as shock and sadness have rippled throughout our town.