Still Living Among the Living

I can't help myself -- I still have my Easter decor' up and am still living in the moment of embracing my risen Savior.

He lives! Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me and tells me I am His own. He lives. He lives -- salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives -- He lives within my heart!

On Easter Sunday, a week ago, across the world, voices rose in celebration -- He is risen! Churches filled, songs were sung, and hearts were stirred by the beautiful reminder that Jesus walked out of that grave.
And oh, what a glorious day it was!

But here’s the quiet, steady truth that lingers long after the lilies fade and the songs grow softer -- He still lives. Today.

Because He lives, we don’t just celebrate life -- we live it.
Not a someday hope -- but a right-now peace.

“Because I live, you also will live.” (John 14:19)

That means on ordinary Tuesdays -- in doctor’s offices --
around kitchen tables -- through laughter and through tears --
He lives.

And I see Him.
I see Him in Carl -- steady, kind, and faithful.
In my family -- in their love, their growth, their resilience.
In friends who pray, who show up, who carry one another through hard seasons.

This isn’t just a story we remember once a year.
It’s a life we experience every single day.

The same power that rolled away the stone -- still rolls away fear.
still lifts heavy hearts and still breathes peace into anxious places.

So no, I don’t need a calendar to remind me that Jesus lives.
I see Him.
I know Him.
I walk with Him.

And here’s the invitation for all of us -- not just to remember Easter -- but to live it.

To wake up each day knowing -- He is present. He is powerful.
He is personal.
And nothing -- not even death -- has the final word.

So today, whatever you’re facing, let this settle gently into your heart --
The grave is still empty.
The Savior is still alive.
And resurrection life -- is still ours to walk in.

#HeLives #ResurrectionHope #resurrectionlife

There’s Something About That Name

 

Our weekly Women’s Bible study has been walking chapter by chapter through "Live a Praying Life" by Jennifer Kennedy Dean, and oh my -- what a gift it has been.

Each week feels like an invitation -- not just to pray, but to live in prayer. Not a routine, but a relationship. Not a checklist, but a conversation with the One who knows us fully and loves us completely.

“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

That’s the kind of life we’re learning to embrace -- a life where prayer isn’t reserved for moments, but woven into every moment.

Last week, we leaned into the power of praying in the name of Jesus. What a privilege! Jesus Himself said, “Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do.” (John 14:13)

When we pray in His name, we aren’t just reciting words -- we are standing in His authority. Heaven listens. The spiritual realm responds.

I learned that as a little girl. When my daddy was ill, I watched my mama whisper the name of Jesus throughout the day. Not loud. Not showy. Just steady. Faithful. And I followed her lead.

That name became my anchor, my comfort, my constant companion. Speaking the name of Jesus over our families, our fears, and our future -- it changes things.

And then Easter morning came. The sunrise seemed to declare, “He lives!” As if heaven itself was reminding us of the price paid -- and the victory won.

“At the name of Jesus every knee shall bow" Philippians 2:10–11

That name still calms storms. Still heals hearts. Still restores hope.

So let me ask you, dear friends -- have you had a little talk with Jesus lately?

Not just on Easter. Not just in trouble.
But in the quiet, ordinary moments of your day?

Because I can tell you this from experience -- there is nothing sweeter than walking and talking with Jesus every single day.

And oh -- there is something about that name!
Whisper it. Speak it. Live it.
Because when we walk with Him daily -- everything changes.

#TheNameAboveAllNames #TheNameOfJesus #PrayingLife

When Mercy Speaks Louder Than Judgment

It’s so easy to slip into the blame game -- pointing fingers at those who stumble, whispering sharp words about those who don’t measure up, and quietly justifying our own missteps when we miss the mark.

We’ve all been there… every single one of us. And yet, we have witnessed the greatest Mercy-Giver of all time.

Oh, the mercy of Jesus -- extended to the undeserving, poured out without hesitation. Mercy for Peter, who denied Him. Mercy for the thief on the cross, who had nothing to offer but a final breath of faith. Mercy for people just like you and me -- even in our weakest, most undeserving moments.

Jesus didn’t lead with condemnation. He led with compassion.

He saw beyond the failure -- beyond the denial -- beyond the past. He saw hearts that still had a pulse for Him. And instead of turning away, He leaned in.

What if we did the same?

What if, instead of pointing out faults, we extended grace?
What if, instead of rehearsing someone’s failure, we remembered our own need for mercy?

Because the truth is -- we don’t stand on our goodness.
We stand on His.

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning…”
(Lamentations 3:22–23)

New mercy. Every morning. For them -- and for us.

So today, let’s put down the stones. Let’s loosen our grip on judgment. Let’s choose mercy -- the kind we’ve been given, the kind that restores, the kind that reminds us we are all still being shaped by grace.

Mercy isn’t earned -- it’s given.
And thank God -- it’s given to all of us.

Today, let’s choose grace over judgment, compassion over criticism, and mercy over everything.

#newmercies #GraceWins #MercyMatters

Let’s Go for a Walk

I was once a long distance runner. Miles and miles -- until my knees kindly suggested we find another plan. So now? I glide. The elliptical has become my “walk.”

No pounding. No pressure. Just a steady, gentle rhythm.
And somewhere between those smooth strides -- I started noticing something.
Some of my sweetest conversations with Jesus happen right there.
And, those conversations often come with praise and worship music!

It reminds me of a walk long ago -- right after Jesus' resurrection:
Two weary disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) -- with heads down. Hearts heavy. Confused, disappointed, wondering how everything had gone so wrong.

They were walking -- but not really seeing. And then --
Jesus showed up.
Not with a grand announcement. Not with a spotlight.
Just quietly -- walking beside them.

He listened. He asked questions. He opened the Scriptures.
And slowly -- something shifted.
“Did not our hearts burn within us…” That's it!!

That moment when truth came alive.
When confusion turned into clarity.
When heaviness lifted and hope began to rise again.

Isn’t that what we long for?
And here’s the beautiful part -- Jesus still walks with us.
On sidewalks.
On country roads.
Even on elliptical machines.

We may not always recognize Him right away. Life gets noisy. Our thoughts get tangled. But He’s there -- listening, guiding, speaking gently to our hearts.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
(Psalm 119:105)

So maybe today -- you don’t need to have it all figured out.
Maybe you just need a walk.
A quiet moment.
A willing heart.
A step -- or a stride.

Because somewhere along the way, you just might find --
He’s been right beside you all along.

You don’t have to run -- just walk. Or glide.
Somewhere between your steps and your thoughts, you may just hear Him. He’s closer than you think.

#WalkWithJesus #emmaus #FaithInMotion

Praise is our Defense AND Offense

It sounds a little strange, doesn’t it? Praise -- a weapon?

When life feels like a battle, my first instinct isn’t to sing -- it’s to stress and whine. To fix. To figure it out. Maybe even to complain just a little (or a lot).

But Psalms 8:2 flips that thinking upside down.
“Through praise -- you have established a stronghold against your enemies.”

Praise doesn’t just sound good -- it does good. It silences the enemy. It strengthens the weary. It shifts the atmosphere.

And here’s the part that gets me:
Praise works best when it makes the least sense.
When the bills are stacked.
When the diagnosis isn’t good.
When the prayer hasn’t been answered yet.

That’s when praise becomes powerful.
Not because everything changed -- but because we did.

Praise is faith with a voice. It says, “God, I don’t see it yet…
but I trust You anyway.”

Remember King Jehoshaphat? Surrounded by enemies, he didn’t send out the strongest soldiers first -- he sent the singers. And as they praised, God fought the battle for them.

Or Paul and Silas -- locked in prison, chains on their wrists -- and what did they do? They sang. And suddenly -- chains fell off.

That’ll make us want to hum a hymn in a hurry.
Praise isn’t denial. It’s declaration.
It declares that God is bigger than what we’re facing.

It invites His presence right into the middle of our mess.
It reminds our hearts where our help comes from.

And yes -- sometimes it’s a sacrifice.
Because we may not feel like praising.

But that’s when it matters most.
So today, if we’re in a battle -- big or small -- before we worry -- before we wrestle -- let's try this::

Whisper a thank You.
Lift a song.
Speak His name.
Because praise doesn’t just change our situations -- it changes us!

And that, my friends, is a weapon worth using!

#praiseandworship #SacrificeOfPraise #praiseisourweapon

He Rescued Me

On Monday, there I was -- on the elliptical -- getting my steps in, when I glanced at the news.

And suddenly -- my workout turned into worship.
Our U.S. airman -- alone, freezing, battered -- clinging to life on a mountainside. Thirty-six hours of hiding, climbing, surviving. Every move mattered. Every breath counted.

And then -- RESCUE! That word settled deep in my heart.
In that moment of danger, the airman's faith showed through.

NOW, hear this: He was shot down on Good Friday.
He was isolated -- hidden in a cave, a crevice on Saturday.
He was rescued on Sunday -- Easter Sunday!

He was rescued. Not by accident or luck.
But by courage, wisdom, and the right help at just the right time.

And I couldn’t help but think -- how many of us need rescuing today?

Maybe not from a mountainside -- but from something just as real.
A heart that feels overwhelmed.
A diagnosis that brings fear.
A relationship unraveling.
A mind that won’t quiet down.

We may look fine on the outside -- but inside? We’re hanging on.

And then comes that quiet whisper: "Cry out!"
Because there is One who sees you and me -- right where we are.

“He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters.” (Psalm 18:16)

That’s what God does. He rescues. Not when we have it all together -- but when we’re barely holding on.

I’m reminded of an old song, written and recorded by dear friends, Jimmy & Becky Pearce: “He Rescued Me.” The chorus was this:

"He rescued me, Jesus rescued me
From the cold dark waters of sin's troubled sea
He rescued me, new life I can see
Jesus reached down in love
And He rescued me."

Jesus reaches into our mess, our fear, our storms -- and pulls us up.
Not because we earned it.
But because He loves us.

So today, if you feel like that airman -- tired -- alone -- unsure how your story ends. Don’t stay silent. Call out God's name.

Because the same God who rescues on mountainsides --
rescues hearts.

And He’s not late. Not distracted. Not distant.
He’s right there.
Reaching down.
Ready to save.

Feeling overwhelmed? Hanging on by a thread? You’re not alone. God still rescues—right on time, right where you are. Reach out…He’s reaching down.

#herescuedme #GodSaves #HopeForToday

Let's Keep Singing and Celebrating!

There’s something about Easter music that doesn’t just touch our ears and hearts -- it reaches our souls!

This past Good Friday, our church was filled with somber voices, sacred scriptures, and the quiet reverence of communion -- a holy reminder of the price our Lord paid so we wouldn’t have to.

I sat there keenly aware -- this wasn’t a funeral. This was gratitude. This was love on full display.

And then came Easter morning. Oh my -- everything changed. The same choir and orchestra didn’t just sing triumphantly -- they lifted us. What began in solemn reflection rose into celebration -- because the cross was never the end of the story.

But my mind drifted back -- to a little girl (me) being gently shaken awake before sunrise. “Get up -- it’s Easter.” That meant -- we were going to Laurel Land Cemetery for a sunrise service! I remember it well.

Now think about that. Celebrating LIFE -- in a place marked by death. Yet as the sun rose, something in my young heart understood -- Jesus wasn't there!

The grave had lost. Jesus had won. And if we didn’t sing about it?
Well -- those rocks (and tombstones) might have cried out for us. (Luke 19:40)

Music has always been part of my life. From “Jesus Loves Me” to the great hymns of the church, to our Masters IV Quartet traveling the nation -- it wasn’t just something we sang -- it was something we carried.

I may not hit those high notes like I used to, but I’ve learned this:
God isn’t looking for perfect pitch.
He’s listening for a willing heart.
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord…” (Psalm 100:1)
Noise -- not perfection!

That truth came rushing back last week watching American Idol during Holy Week. I didn’t expect worship in my living room -- but there it was. Voices rising, truth ringing out, hearts turning toward our Lord. Unashamedly holy!

And when Carrie Underwood belt out “How Great Thou Art” -- I was worshipping with her. And apparently, so was the nation.

So whether we're in a church, a living room -- or even standing in a cemetery at sunrise -- LET'S REJOICE and SING!

Because when praise rises, heaven listens. And if we don’t sing it -- those rocks just might!

#MakeAJoyfulNoise #WorshipMatters #HeIsRisen

Hold On! We're Not Done Yet!

There's forty more days of Easter. Don’t pack up the lilies.
Don’t tuck away the joy.

Easter wasn’t a one-day celebration.
It was just the beginning.

For forty more days, Jesus walked the earth -- alive, present, and wonderfully unexpected. Acts 1:3 says: "After Hs suffering, He presented Himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God."

He showed up where doors were locked.
He stepped onto dusty roads beside weary travelers.
He called Mary by name in a garden of tears.
He stood before doubting Thomas and said, “Go ahead -- touch the scars.”

Can you imagine? The One they saw die -- now standing before them -- breathing, speaking, alive.

1 Corinthians 15:6 tells us He appeared to many -- even more than 500 at one time -- a flood of proof!

Oh, what those forty days must have felt like.
A living classroom.
A holy “seminar” on resurrection life.
And the Teacher?

The One who said, “I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
He wasn’t just teaching truth -- He was THE TRUTH!

Then came the moment -- 40 days later when He ascended.
Not to leave them -- but to be with all of us.

Because now, through the Holy Spirit, He doesn’t just walk beside us -- He lives within us. And that changes everything.

Because He lives…fear doesn’t get the final word.
Not the news headlines.
Not the wars.
Not the uncertainty of tomorrow.
We don’t have to join the choir of worry and dread.

We belong to a different song. A resurrection song.
The kind that sees stars in the night sky and whispers, “He made that.”
The kind that feels the wind, hears the birds, holds a newborn -- and knows -- we are still winning because Jesus is still living!

So no, Easter isn’t over. It’s unfolding. In you. In me.
In every breath filled with hope.

For 40 days, Jesus showed up -- alive and present. And today?
He still does. In you, in me, in every breath of hope.

#HeLives #40DaysOfEaster #ResurrectionLife

God’s Not Dead — He’s ALIVE!

The stone is rolled away. The tomb is empty.
And heaven is not whispering -- it’s shouting! HE'S ALIVE!!!

What looked like a grave -- was really a doorway.
What looked like the end -- was heaven shouting -- “Watch this!”

Peter said it best: “It was not possible for death to hold Him.” (Acts 2:24) Not possible.

Death tried. The enemy thought he had won. Hell held its breath.

And then -- came the morning. Probably 12.01 AM -- Hell couldn't hold Him any longer.

Can you imagine that moment?
The earth trembling --
The stone shifting --
Life bursting where death had ruled!
That tomb wasn’t a holding place.
It was a delivery room.

And on that third morning, life came forth -- not quietlly --
but victoriously!

SURPRISE, Satan! You thought you sealed the story.
But God had already written the ending.
And it reads -- God wins. Jesus wins and WE WIN!

“No grave can hold my body down!” -- and not just for Him, but for us too.

Because Jesus didn’t just rise for Himself. He rose for you and me! !
“The same Spirit who raised Christ from the dead lives in you.” (Romans 8:11)

Lives. In. You. That means what feels buried in your life --
isn’t finished.

That dream? Not dead.
That hope? Not gone.
That heart? Not beyond healing.

God has a way of stepping into tombs and calling things back to life. So go ahead -- put your hand over your heart. Feel that?

That’s resurrection power still at work.
You are breathing. You are here.
And God is not done with you.

This isn’t just Easter and Resurrection Sunday. This is your reminder that no grave -- no fear -- no failure -- gets the final word.

Because Jesus lives -- we live!
And that, my friend -- is the greatest comeback story of all time.

"And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you."
Romans 8:11

The stone was rolled away, the grave lost its grip, and LIFE burst forth! Because He lives, nothing in our lives is beyond hope. This is your comeback story too. 🌅✝️

#HeIsRisen #ResurrectionPower #WeWin

Holy Saturday: The Day In Between

It's the day after.
You know that feeling.
The phone calls have been made.
The tears have been cried -- at least the first wave.
And now -- there’s silence.
A quiet so heavy it almost echoes.

Yesterday, everything changed.
Jesus -- Teacher, Healer, Friend -- was gone.
Laid in a borrowed tomb.
Stone rolled shut.
Hope -- sealed behind it.

Can you imagine the disciples?
They had walked with Him, laughed with Him, watched Him do the impossible. Blind eyes opened. Dead hearts awakened. Storms silenced.

And now…nothing.
No miracles.
No voice.
No movement.

Just Saturday.
The in-between day.

The day where promises feel distant and prayers seem unanswered.
The day where heaven feels quiet and hearts feel heavy.

They had heard Him say it -- three days.
But grief has a way of drowning out truth.

Maybe you know that feeling. I do.
When a prayer feels buried.
When a relationship feels beyond repair.
When your future looks like it’s been sealed behind a stone.

Holy Saturday whispers, “It’s over.”
But heaven -- is holding its breath.

Because what looks like the end -- is only the pause before the greatest beginning.

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

The is the "hold on" day when we learn to wait.
Not with despair -- but with quiet, stubborn hope.

Because God is still working -- even when we can’t see it.
Even in the silence.
Even in the tomb.

Saturday is real.
Saturday hurts.
Saturday lingers.
But Saturday doesn’t win.

Because buried dreams aren’t dead.
Promises aren’t forgotten.
And love -- cannot be contained.

So if today feels like your “in-between,” hold on!

Sunday is not just coming --
it’s already on the way.

And when it arrives?
The stone will roll.
The grave will empty.
And everything will change.

If today feels like the “in-between,” you’re not alone.
Saturday may feel silent -- but God is still working.
Hold on -- Sunday is coming. I can hardly wait!

#HolySaturday #InBetween #SundayIsComing

Good Friday -- Not, Black Friday?

 

That’s what it feels like when loss hits close to home. When our hearts are breaking and the world keeps spinning like nothing happened. People laugh. Traffic moves. Life goes on.

And we wonder how we can go on?
An innocent Man -- kind, compassionate, blameless -- betrayed, beaten, nailed to a cross. Justice twisted. Truth silenced. Love rejected.

There was nothing “good” about the scene.
The whip tore His back.
The crown pressed into His brow.
The nails pierced His hands and feet.

And heaven? It was silent.

Jesus could have called ten thousand angels.
One word -- and it would have been over.
But He didn’t.
He stayed.
Not because He was powerless --
but because He was full of love.

“He was pierced for our transgressions -- by His wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

Every lash -- for our healing.
Every drop of blood -- for our forgiveness.
Every moment of agony -- for our eternity.

This was the greatest injustice the world has ever seen --
and the greatest rescue the world will ever know.

So why do we call it Good Friday?
Because what looked like defeat -- was actually victory in disguise.

Because what felt like the end -- was only the beginning.
Because on that cross, -- Jesus didn’t just die -- He paid it all.

Sin lost its grip.
Death lost its sting.
Hope took a breath.

Oh, my friends -- this is true love.
Not words.
Not feelings.
Action.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

So today, let's not rush past the cross.
We pause.
We remember.
We feel the weight of it.

But we don’t stay in the sorrow.
Because the grave couldn’t hold Him.
And Sunday is already on its way.

Good Friday isn’t the end of the story.
It’s the reason we have one.

It looked like the worst day in history --
but it became the greatest rescue of all time.
Jesus stayed on the cross -- for you, for me.
Hold on, children -- Sunday is coming. ✝️

#GoodFriday #ItIsFinished #LoveThatSaved

Holy Thursday -- Love at the Table

Remember Throwback Thursday? TBT
Old photos. Big hair. Bell bottoms. Memories that make us smile.

But this Thursday -- this isn’t a throwback.
It’s a comeback of the heart.

Not just a picture on a wall of "The Last Supper" -- but a living moment filled with love and passion -- yet tension and deceit.

Jesus sat at the table with the very men He had walked with for over three years. He had healed, taught, comforted, and carried them. He had whispered, “Do not be afraid,” more times than they could count.

And now -- He says something that stops the room cold:
“One of you will betray Me.”

Can't you feel it? The silence. The confusion. The sting.
And yet -- Jesus doesn’t get up and leave.
He doesn’t call down angels.
He stays.
He breaks bread.
He lifts the cup.
“Do this in remembrance of Me.” (Luke 22:19)

Then -- He does the unthinkable.
The King kneels.
He washes their feet.
Dusty. Worn. Imperfect feet.
Even Judas’ feet.

Peter resists -- because grace like that feels undeserved.
But Jesus gently reminds him, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” (John 13:8)

Oh, doesn't this cut deep?
Because this night wasn’t just about clean feet.
It was about a cleansing only Jesus could give.

While lies were forming,
While betrayal was already in motion.
While thirty pieces of silver clinked in a hidden pocket.....
Jesus chose love.
Not shallow love.
Serving love.
Costly love.

The kind that kneels when it should stand.
The kind that gives when it knows it will be wounded.

And here WE ARE at the table.....
Would we have stayed at the table?
Would we have followed Him to the cross?
Or would fear have whispered us away?

Holy Thursday doesn’t ask for perfection.
It asks for surrender.

“Lord, wash me.”
“Lord, cleanse me.”
“Lord, make me a vessel.”
"Lord, I surrender all."

Because the truth still stands -- not for just the disciples -- mercy, forgiveness, sacrifice, and love poured out for all of us.

This wasn’t just a meal. It wasn't just a foot-washing. It was the beginning of everything.

Today, let's come to the table and let our Lord and Savior wash our heart and feet clean, too! ✝️

#HolyThursday #LoveThatServes #ComeToTheTable

Holy Wednesday -- Halfway There

We call Wednesday “Hump Day.”
Weekend in sight. Hang on just a little longer.

But this Wednesday?
This one wasn’t about pushing through to something easy.
For Jesus, it meant one day closer to the cross.

Scripture tells us this day is often called “Spy Wednesday.” Judas --one of His own -- went to the chief priests and asked, “What will you give me if I deliver Him to you?” Thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:14-15)
Just like that -- betrayal had a price tag.

And yet, while schemes were being whispered in dark corners, Jesus was doing something altogether different.
He was being still.

This “Silent Wednesday” finds Him in Bethany -- just a couple miles from Jerusalem -- resting with friends He loved: Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. No crowds. No miracles on display. Just presence.

And then Mary does something unforgettable.
She pours costly perfume over Jesus. Extravagant. Generous. Beautiful.

Judas protests -- “What a waste!”
(Interesting how the loudest critics often have the quietest integrity.)

But Jesus sees it clearly.
“She has done this to prepare Me for burial.”

He knew what was coming -- every lash, every thorn, every nail. And still, He stayed the course.

Back here in our world, Easter can slip in quietly too.
Christmas gets the lights, the sparkle, the full production.
But Easter? It often tiptoes in -- no fanfare, just a whisper.

And maybe that’s fitting.
Because when someone we love is walking toward suffering, we don’t throw a party. We draw close. We grow quiet. We remember.

Holy Wednesday invites us to do the same.
To sit with Him.
To reflect.
To feel the weight of what He carried -- willingly -- for us.

While betrayal was being planned, Jesus chose stillness, love, and obedience.
And though this day feels silent -- hold on, my child!
Let's sit with Him today. Sunday is coming. ✝️

#HolyWeek #SilentWednesday #HeKnew

Temple Tuesday -- Truth that Stands

I feel a quiet stirring in my heart. I don’t want to move through this week distracted or unaware. This is the week Jesus walked steadily toward the cross -- for me, for you.

And I find myself wanting to slow my pace, soften my heart, and walk with Him -- all the way to Calvary, and then to the joy of the resurrection.

Holy Week is moving forward -- and Tuesday finds Jesus right where we might expect Him -- in the Temple.

Not resting. Not retreating. Teaching.
If Monday was about cleansing the Temple, Tuesday was about filling it with truth.

Jesus knew His time was short. Every word mattered. Every moment carried weight. And yet, instead of softening His message, He leaned in with clarity, courage, and conviction.

The religious leaders questioned Him. Challenged Him. Tried to trap Him. But oh -- they underestimated Who they were talking to.

Matthew 22:46 says: “No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask Him any more questions.”

Jesus spoke truth that stood firm. Through stories -- parables about vineyards, banquets, coins, and eternity -- He opened eyes and revealed hearts. Some leaned in. Others pushed back. But no one walked away unchanged.

And isn’t that still true today? Jesus doesn’t just offer suggestions.
He offers truth.

And in a world full of noise, opinions, and confusion -- truth can feel a little uncomfortable. (Okay… sometimes a lot uncomfortable)
But truth is also what sets us free.

As I think about this day, I’m reminded of something simple yet powerful -- even when life feels uncertain -- God’s truth never wavers.

We may be walking through something heavy right now -- loss, uncertainty, strained relationships, or just trying to make ends meet. Take heart.

This same Jesus who stood in the Temple teaching with authority -- stands with you today.

He sees.
He knows.
He cares.
And the story isn’t over.

We’re still moving toward the cross -- and oh, what a painful path that will be. Let's not forget -- we already know the ending.

The stone rolls away.
Hope rises.
And our Champion wins.

So today, on this Temple Tuesday -- let's lean into His truth.
Let it steady our hearts. Because when Jesus speaks -- it stands!

#templetuesday #jesusspeaks #HolyTuesday

Holy Monday -- A Heart Made Clean

I find myself remembering my Holy Lands experiences from years ago. I walked where Jesus walked. Something in me stood still and came alive all at once. I was deeply moved by what I saw, what I felt, and by the quiet, undeniable sense that I was standing on holy ground.

I stood on the soil He touched, saw the places He taught, and felt something deep in my soul whisper, “He was here.” And somehow, even more personal -- “He did this for you.”

I didn’t need a plane ticket to know He lives -- but oh, being there made it feel so real. Like stepping into the pages of Scripture. Like hearing the echo of that old hymn, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?”

And the answer, in my heart, was yes.
Because He had you and me on His mind.
Now here we are -- Holy Monday.

Just one day after the cheers of Palm Sunday, the palms -- still fresh on the ground, but Jesus already knew what was ahead. The same voices that cried “Hosanna!” became quiet.

And what did He do on this Monday?
He walked into the temple -- and cleaned house.

Tables overturned. Coins scattered. Not out of anger alone, but out of holy love. His Father’s house had been crowded with noise, greed, and distraction. It was meant to be a place of prayer -- and He restored it.

And then -- don’t miss this -- the blind and the lame came to Him there, and He healed them. (Matthew 21:14)

Even in the middle of the mess… Jesus made room for mercy.
That’s Holy Monday.

And maybe -- that’s our invitation too.
To let Him step into the crowded places of our hearts.
To overturn what doesn’t belong.
To clear out fear, worry, pride, and distraction.

Not to shame us -- but to make room for healing.
Because the same Jesus who walked into that temple -- walks into our lives today and every day -- in our homes and In our quiet moments.

He still cleans.
He still restores.
He still loves.

So on this Holy Monday, let’s open the doors wide.
Let Him do His work.
And oh, what peace comes when He does.

Palm Sunday -- Our King has Come!

 

Oh, what a Savior. Oh, hallelujah!

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week -- the grandest story ever told -- that started with a baby coming quietly into our world.

No spotlight. No royal announcement -- just a humble stable, a young mother, and a promise wrapped in swaddling clothes.

That baby grew into a man who healed the broken, restored the weary, touched the untouchable, and loved people like you and me.

And today, we celebrate His ride into Jerusalem.
Not on a war horse, but on a donkey.
Not with a crown of gold, but with a heart full of surrender.

The streets filled with voices shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Luke 19:38).

Palm branches waved. Hope filled the air. The people thought their King had come to take over.

This was no polished parade. It was a “ragtag” procession of ordinary people who had seen the extraordinary -- blind eyes opened, lame legs walking, lives forever changed. And they followed Him because they knew -- this is the One.

But Jesus knew something they didn’t.
The cheers would soon turn to silence.
The palms would give way to a cross.
The celebration would lead to sacrifice.

And still -- He came.
He came for the broken.
He came for the overlooked.
He came for the weary and the wondering.
He came for you and me.

This week, we choose to walk with Him -- from the praise of Palm Sunday to the pain of the cross -- and oh, best news ever -- to the victory of the empty tomb.

Because this isn’t just His story.
It’s ours.
We are His “Salvation Army” -- lifting His name, carrying His love, and sharing His hope with a world that needs Him so much.

So let's wave our palm branches, symbolically or actually waving palm branches to declare.....

Our King has come -- right into our hearts!
Oh what a Savior! Oh hallelujah!
Hosanna to our King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Keep Your Eyes on the Ball

I heard the cutest dad story.
A father wanted to help his 7-year-old son with baseball. He’d taken him to practice, thrown pitches, done all the right things --but he admitted, “I don’t really know what to tell him!”

So he asked a friend. The answer?
“He’s seven. Just tell him one thing -- WATCH THE BALL!”
That’s it.

Apparently, that one simple instruction works for just about every sport when you’re seven.

Now, I wish I could say I mastered that concept myself.

Years ago, my sister-in-law and I took golf lessons. We swung with confidence -- and missed the ball completely. Or we’d hit it and it would roll about three feet. The instructor kept saying, “Keep your eyes on the ball!”

We tried. We really did.
But between laughing and talking, we decided golf might not be our calling. I think our instructor agreed with us! Sigh!

Then I saw a little T-ball player take that advice very literally. When the coach said, “Keep your eye on the ball,” the little guy leaned down and put his eye right on it! Precious.

And honestly -- not too far off from how we sometimes respond to life.

We hear what we’re supposed to do, but distractions pull us in every direction -- worries, frustrations, responsibilities, all competing for our attention.

And I can just picture our Heavenly Father gently taking our face in His hands and saying,
“Look at Me.
Focus on Me.
Keep your eyes on Me.”

Hebrews 12:2 reminds us:
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.”

Because when our focus drifts, our peace drifts right along with it.
But when we keep our eyes on Him?
Everything changes.
The noise quiets.
The worries soften.
And our steps steady.

So today, let’s keep it simple. Just like a 7-year-old learning the game -- keeping our eyes on the most important thing -- actually, the most important One -- that's Jesus.

Words That Matter Most

 

Good gracious -- I can’t stay quiet about this. Our words were never meant to wound, divide, or tear down. Yet that’s exactly what we’re surrounded by.

Everywhere we turn, there’s a barrage of harsh, careless, even cruel words -- words that stir fear, fuel division, and drain life right out of us.

While I am on the elliptical machine, I usually play sweet Christian worship songs on my iPhone. How uplifting it is!

And I can also grab a quick update on today's news. But yikes! Within seconds -- negativity, noise, and more noise.

Click. Off it goes!
I thought, “Well, that’s not how I’m starting my day.”
Because words matter.

They’re everywhere -- spoken, heard, posted, broadcast. Words fill our homes, our cars, our conversations, and yes -- our hearts.

And here’s the truth -- words have power.
They can lift a weary soul -- or weigh it down.
They can brighten a room -- or darken it in seconds.

God showed us just how powerful words are from the very beginning -- “Let there be light.” And there was light. Genesis 1:3

He created the world with words. And since we are made in His image -- we create with ours.

“The tongue has the power of life and death.” Proverbs 18:21

That’s quite a responsibility, isn’t it?
But oh, what an opportunity. Think about the words that bring life:
“I love you.”
“I’m proud of you.”
“You matter.”
“I forgive you.”
“This place is better because you’re here.”

Those words don’t cost a thing --
but they’re priceless to the one receiving them.

Jesus understood this so well.
With words, He calmed storms.
With words, He healed the sick.
With words, He multiplied loaves and fishes.
And with words, He called you and me into being.

So today, before the world gets too loud, let’s choose our words carefully.

Let’s be the ones who speak hope when others speak fear.
Peace when others speak chaos.
Kindness when others forget.

Because every word we speak plants something.
I don’t know about you -- but I want my words to grow life.

Our words carry more power than we think. 💛
Speak life. Speak hope. Speak words that matter most.

No Matter What — Praise Him Anyway

A.W. Tozer, often called a 20th-century prophet for his calls to a deeper spiritual life, emphasized intimacy with God. He once said, “If God takes away everything I have, I will love Him anyway.”

Now that’s a bold kind of faith. But let’s be honest -- it’s not always easy.

There are days when prayers feel unanswered, plans fall apart, and life doesn’t look anything like we imagined. In those moments, praise can feel like the last thing on our list.

Yet, it’s the very thing that lifts us. Praise isn’t just thanking God for what He’s done. It’s trusting Him for who He is.

And He is always good. But there are times when we complain and our spirits feel overwhelmed. And, the more we grumble, the heavier life feels. (I’ve tested that theory a time or two myself!

But something shifts when we choose praise.
Praise lightens the load.
Praise lifts our eyes.
Praise reminds our hearts that God is still in control.

I think about the ten lepers Jesus healed. Only one came back to say thank you. Only one.

And Jesus told him, “Your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:19)

There’s a difference between being healed… and being whole.
And praise has a way of making us whole.

God isn’t just interested in granting our wishes -- He’s interested in drawing us close. His desire is relationship, not just results.

And here’s a truth the enemy hopes we never fully believe:
We are worthy of God’s love.
Not because we’ve earned it -- but because He freely gives it.

So when doubt and unbelief show up at our door -- let's not let that garbage talk -- talk us out of our blessings.

Instead -- let's ask boldly.
Let's trust fully.
And praise Him -- before, during, and after the answer.

Because when we choose praise -- no matter what -- we don’t just get through life -- we rise above it!

Sent with Confidence

 

Have you ever stopped to think that we are God's ambassadors?
Not someday. Not when we feel ready. Not when we’ve memorized enough Scripture or feel “qualified.” Right now!

“Therefore, we are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

That’s not a small assignment. But it’s also not a stressful one.

Sometimes we hesitate to share our faith because we think we need the perfect word or a polished presentation or the ability to “close the deal.”

Oh my -- that sounds exhausting!

The good news? God never asked us to be His salespeople.
He simply asks us to be witnesses.
And we don’t need megaphones or loud amplifiers to do that.

Most of the time, it looks like something much simpler -- and much more powerful -- just telling our story. Sharing how God has met us, changed us, carried us, and loved us through it all.

Letting others see the difference He’s made in our lives -- and gently saying, “I want that for you, too.”
Because here’s something beautiful -- people are already searching.

They may not say it out loud, but deep inside, they’re longing for peace, purpose, forgiveness, and hope. The very things Jesus offers so freely.

And many don’t even know what they believe. They try to make sense of life, but often feel confused, uncertain, even a little restless. But God is not a God of confusion.

“He is a God of peace.” 1 Corinthians 14:33

When we share Jesus, we’re not adding pressure -- we’re offering clarity.
We’re not arguing -- we’re inviting.
We’re not forcing -- we’re simply pointing.

And the truth? It speaks for itself.

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

So take a deep breath, my dear friends.
You don’t have to have all the answers.
You just have to be willing.

God has you in the palm of His mighty hands.
He will give you the words, the courage, and the opportunities.

All He asks is this:
Be available.
Be faithful.
Be confident in His love.
Because when you walk into a room -- you never walk in alone!

You are THE ONE sent and He is with you ALWAYS!

Patriotism at Its Finest

Some people hang a flag. Others -- raise a legacy.

On Saturday morning, March 21, something truly special unfolded at the home of our dear friend, Lucille Casner. This wasn’t just a flagpole dedication. This was a declaration -- of faith, freedom, and deep gratitude.

Now entering her 92nd year, Lucille Casner is still full of life, love and American spirit. The beloved founder of Casner Christian Academy held a flag-raising ceremony in her front yard to celebrate her birthday. She was surrounded by family, friends, my Carl, former Casner students and many veterans.

Lucille’s flag didn’t simply hang from the pole in her front yard, No, hers stood tall -- anchored firmly in the ground and stretching high above, as if reaching toward heaven itself.

Surrounding her driveway were smaller flags, each one whispering, “We remember. We honor. We are grateful.” And oh, how fitting that it all began with God.

Then came the moment -- the raising of the flag -- led by her children and grandchildren. Generations standing together, lifting high the symbol of our freedom.

John Harrison’s powerful voice rang out with “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and if there was ever a time to stand a little taller, that was it. They pledged allegiance -- not just out of habit, but from the heart. John sang Texas, Our Texas (because, well… we are in Texas 😊), and honored even more with the P.O.W. flag raising, with Ken Wallingford who was a Vietnam P.O.W.

With a closing benediction by Pastor Bill McGinnis and a warm reception to follow, it was more than an event. It was a moment.

Now here’s what makes Lucille shine even brighter.

She has not lost a husband or child in combat, though they did serve in combat. Her patriotism isn’t born from personal loss -- but from profound gratitude. A love for country. A respect for those who served. A recognition that freedom is never free.

Scripture reminds us:
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” —Psalm 33:12

Lucille lives that truth. With honor. With dignity. With unwavering pride.

And here in Texas, we have a saying -- “Don’t Mess With Texas.”
Well, I’d say… don’t mess with Lucille either.

Because when it comes to loving her God, her country, and those who serve…she stands tall -- just like the flag! 🇺🇸

It sure inspired me seeing Lucille's love of her Country and appreciation for those who paid a hefty price for our freedoms. Her Star Spangled flag and her Texas flag will wave proudly.

Doesn't that make you and me want to step up our patriotism and love for our Country, too?