“The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.”
(Song of Solomon 2:12-13) May 2025
Photo by Photographer and Author Jody Hildreth Acorn Whimsy
Creator and Photographer: Jody Hildreth
Jody Hildreth lives in Waterville, NY with his wife of 35 years. They have two daughters and one granddaughter who is the joy of their lives. Jody recently retired after working as an elementary librarian for 30 years. He has always been passionate about encouraging children to be curious about the natural world around them. His retirement has given him time to work on other projects he is passionate about. Mainly, his photography. With over 50 National Parks under his belt, he is always looking to photograph our country’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife. During covid, he started a new project: Acorn Whimsy. Creating unique characters out of acorns and other nature items, he then poses these creations in natural settings where they come to life. The main goal was to bring smiles and laughter to people during a dark time. With over 1,300 scenes photographed and several published books, he shows no signs of slowing down. Daily posts are shared to his social media accounts bringing joy to thousands each day.
Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor
Hello May,
I hope you are all having a wonderful Spring and look forward to all that May brings. I was so blessed a couple of week ago, when my friend Donna took me to her cabin in the mountains. We had a wonderful couple of days going to Grandfather Mountain and exploring the area.
The one thing that I want to ask is for you all to keep North Carolina in your prayers. So many families, businesses, and even churc hes were damaged or destroyed when Hurricane Helene hit. As we drove up the mountain, we were somewhat quiet as we saw the damage - six months later - trees still down, damage from the floods was evident. So please, take a few minutes and pray that God will help get everyone everwhere that were impacted by the hurricane.
This month, I am introducting Jody Hildreth to you. I fell in love with his Facebook page called Acorn Whimsy.You can see his work on the cover and on the page before this one. Not only a wonderful photographer - but a very creative person. Please check out his Facebook page here : https://www.facebook.com/acornwhimsy
I am going to do a couple of day road trips in May, with my trusty friends, Susan and Donna, we will explore areas and show you God’s beautiful creation. If you are a photographer and would like to be highlighted in the magazine, please send me an email with a couple of samples.
I have a confession. I have had a couple of bad weeks in April. One where I experienced depression, the other with Vertigo. I had family and friends praying for me. I appreciate each of you. During the depression - which was a very new experience for me, I felt that God was showing me how people feel when they go through this. I am blessed that it only lasted a short time, but it gave me insight and I will pray for all who are depressed and ask God to let them seek help. If you know someone who is suffering, take them to prayer. It helps.
Enjoy Spring, get out and take a drive. Be well, I am praying for you all, Karen
Team@faithoneverycorner.com
COVER AND PHOTOS By JODY HILDRETH
Spring Poems ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7
May I Help You, or Can I help you? ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9
A River Of Life In The Desert ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11
When I Am Afraid ... Gina Meredith.. Page 12-13
Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15
Beautiful By Design ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16
The One ... by Laurie Glass ... Page 17
I’m Not Moving ... by Donna J. Miller ... Pages 18-19
In Tributes To Mom ... Mike Buchanan ... Pages 20-21
Life Lessons Served At Summer Camp ... by Brianna Barrett ... Pages 22-23
Poetry ... by Mike Hall ... Pages 24-25
Poems ... Rolanda Pyle ... Page 26-27
Peace In The Pressure Cooker ... Shara Bueler Repka ... Pages 28-29
Little Jesus Dolls .... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 30
Walking The Cross ... by Karen Ruhl ... Page 31
Sending love in this the “Love” month. Blessings to you all.
Painful Praise ... by Linda Castro ... Pages 34-35
Book Reviews ... by Karen Ruhl ... Pages 36-37
Perhaps Blind Faith Is In Truth Not Blind ... by Mitchell Milch ... Pages 38
I Love You Mom ... by David Sowards ...Page 39
Road Trippin’ ... by Susan Strawn... Pages 40-41
Deprived or Blessed - Our Call ... by ... Andrea Marino ... Page 42
Photos by Karen Ruhl ... pages 44-46 I am so happy to feature Jody Hildreth in this issue. For more Acorn Whimsy, visit: https://www.photoperch.com/Acorn-Man
Beyond Spring
This is the time of year that brings to mind gardens, flowers in bloom, and all things spring. As my mind begins to focus on those things, it often wanders beyond to extend into other areas beyond the here and now. This month I’m sharing a few poems along those lines that extend beyond. I pray they’re a blessing.
Blessings, John Alexander Blessings, John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com
GARDENERS
Our children grow, we lend a hand, To help them grow the best we can. We till the garden, plant the seeds, We keep it watered, free of weeds.
We watch them sprout, break through the ground, Begin to see and look around. As tiny leaves begin to form, They need the light to keep them warm. Their roots reach deep into the soil. We know each one is worth the toil.
The spring brings rain with wind and storm. We see the buds begin to form. We see them bloom, grow strong, mature. We’re confident they will endure.
WORDS BLOOM
To contemplate a brand-new book, To see the concept bake and cook, When just a bud, not yet a rose, Its beauty forms, takes shape, and grows. It’s hard to know just how or when The seed was planted deep within. When people ask, “How do I start?”
I say “Express what’s in your heart. “It means reach deep inside of you. What’s there that’s meaningful and true, Uniquely yours that shines like gold? You’ll find your story to be told.”
The words will come. You’ll set them free. Your rose will bloom for all to see.
THE CREATOR
So much about God that I cannot discern, Yet so much about Him to study and learn.
Not bound by dimensions of time and of space, He’s endless and boundless, yet beauty and grace.
I cannot explain how the mountains were made, Or the beauty of trees as I walk in their shade,
The smell of the flowers that bloom every spring, The birds with a chorus of songs that they sing.
From the depths of the ocean to stars in the sky, Creation extending so deep and so high.
So much of creation we’ve yet to explore, The marvels around us, each day we find more.
I know the Creator, I’m touched by His love, His Son walked the earth, He left Heaven above.
It’s so hard to fathom that He came to earth To give up His life so that we might have worth.
Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard”and“Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440
Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons
“May
I Help You or Can I Help You?”
By Melissa Henderson
One of my first employment experiences was working in a local department store. I was assigned to the children’s section. The job was filled with new opportunities and ways to connect with people. The woman assigned to train new employees taught us how to interact with customers, use the cash register, and various ways to promote new items. However, I quickly learned the importance of saying “May I help you?” instead of “Can I help you?”
Although my husband and I weren’t parents then, I found joy in chatting with the customers. I heard stories about children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. This store offered cribs, bassinets, soft blankets and sheets with colorful patterns, diapers for newborns through toddlers, and different sizes of clothing. From newborn to toddler, from small to large, the desired items were available for purchase.
The more hours I worked in the store, the more I learned how to approach people. Some folks wanted to be left alone to shop. Others asked for assistance with finding sizes and colors. When someone entered the children’s department, I greeted them with a friendly hello and a smile. I learned quickly that good customer service is not about selling, but about building relationships.
God guided me in each encounter with a customer. Most of the time, I helped the person or people find what to purchase. There was often laughter as parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, and friends and family, shared stories about who and why the purchase was being made.
The fathers of newborns were sometimes sent to the store to purchase diapers. A frazzled and distraught dad showed up at the counter early one morning wearing only one shoe. He grabbed a pack of diapers without looking at the size. I started a conversation and asked the age of the baby. He answered, “We’re on the way home from the hospital. I have a son. He’s a newborn. My wife is in the car with him.”
Smiling, I asked, “May I help you?” I showed the man that the size of diapers he was about to purchase was for a toddler, not a newborn.
With a sigh of relief, he paused and looked at me. His smile made me smile.
“Yes, you may help me. Thank you so much.”
We walked to the diaper aisle and found the needed size. The crisis was diverted.
Another day, I decided to try an experiment. When customers entered the children’s area, I took turns asking “Can I help you?” and then, “May I help you?”
Interesting observation. More folks responded to “May I help you?” instead of “Can I help you?”
Why the difference? Who knows? Perhaps the word “may” sounds better than “can”. I didn’t need to know the reason. God knew.
I’m thankful for everyday experiences that allow us to show the love of God to others. Through simple words, we can brighten the day. Even the father of a newborn was thankful for someone to ask “May I help you?”
How may you help others know God?
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12 NIV)
Blessings, Melissa Henderson
Click on the book covers to purchase Melissa’s books.
Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker
https://yvonne-morgan.com
Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor
Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ YMMauthor/
Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)
A River of Life in the Desert
By Yvonne M. Morgan
Several years ago, I experienced the overwhelming scale of the Sahara Desert during a flight over it. The endless sand dunes shimmered in the heat as the massive expanse took several hours to cross by air.
As I stared out at the endless expanse of sand dunes, I watched them shift and ripple in the wind while occasionally spotting a tiny village nestled amongst the empty folds of sands. How do you live so such seclusion? Where do they get their groceries and water from? The sight held me spellbound.
The children of Israel wandered through the scorching Sahara Desert for forty years after leaving Egypt. Their story unfolds in the Old Testament book of Exodus. In the desert, God helped appeared through a life-giving source of water for the Israelites, sustaining them and ensuring their survival amidst the harsh conditions. He will do the same for us in our desert times.
After our arrival in Cairo, I spotted the pyramids, and they felt like a tangible link to biblical history. The sights and smells of the Nile River made walking along it an exciting experience and, to my surprise, the desert reappeared only about a mile from either side of the river. The Pyramids of Giza sit in the desert, but just feet away is the bustling city, trees, and greenery. This river, a ribbon of lifeblood, sustains the entire area.
This experience mirrored my relationship with Christ. Christ, the river of life, nourishes our souls, a lifegiving current that sustains us. If we stray too far from that life-giving river, the desert sun beats down on us, and the dry air leaves us parched and yearning for water. Sometimes, we might wander for years in the scorching desert before finding the cool, life-giving waters of Christ.
Much like the Israelites wandering the arid expanse, these desert trials test our faith and resilience, often prompting complaints. The thirst we might experience is a deep, spiritual longing that only Christ can quench. Our relationship with Jesus heals and restores the isolating ache of loneliness in the desert.
We spend time in the spiritual desert when we prioritize worldly gains over faith in Christ. But sometimes, God sends us into a spiritual desert to reflect on our lives and cultivate a deeper longing for Him.
If you find yourself in the vast, silent expanse of the desert, pause and gaze upon the River of Life, Jesus and return to the source, Christ as the spring of life, and drink deeply; its waters bring everlasting life, refreshing the soul. Just like Jesus told the woman at the well in John 4:13-14 (NIV):
“3 Jesus answered, everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
If this is a time in the desert for you, I pray God will show you the way out and restore your soul with His life sustaining water.
Click on photos to purchase Yvonne’s Books on Amazon.
Check out Yvonne’s latest book by clicking on the cover of Mary the Missionary!
Photograph by Karen Ruhl
Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.
Morning Coffee
by Michael E. Wells
The Greatest Gift
Every year we go through seasons of giving thanks and exchanging tokens of our appreciation. Gatherings of family and friends are both enjoyable and stressful but it will still be good to see those we seldom do, being mindful that we may not again.
Each time there is a sense of anticipation and dread. When it’s all said and done there sometimes comes a feeling of shallowness. The older we get the more gifts seem to lack a fulfillment of the celebration. Past memories can burden us with wrongs committed and words left unspoken.
There is a gift though, available for all to give. It is seldom exchanged but an invaluable one to those who receive. It is the gift of forgiveness. One that costs us nothing but priceless to them. Though they may not deserve it, it helps to heal us when we say, “I forgive you.”
Click on book photo to purchase on Amazon.
(I highly recommend this book! - Karen)
REFLECTIONS
Life is shorter the longer I live, less seems urgent the more I slow down. Cherishing the old now more important than finding the new. Holding fast old age beliefs than following the current. The wisdom of years more valid than the ideas of youth.
Finding peace within from the struggles without. Age has taught me one thing most important, we all leave and what we leave behind is the sum of our existence. Without a sense of eternity we have no reason to consider legacy.
In the end, to be loved and remembered is compelling. May your memory evoke a smile and warmth, remembered for generations as a person of compassion and faith. May yours be the beacon in the storm, the wisdom to follow and the life of faith that leads others to eternity.
MEDICAL MELODIES
For those of us who are getting older, good memories play a major part of our mental health. One of the best triggers for this is music. Good endorphins are released by reflecting on good times. Music has the ability of taking us to another place and time. Today we can find any song online and connect with moments of our past. But be sure they remind you of good times.
For me it was the 1980s. Hard to believe it was over 40 years ago. It was the music of the church, Hosanna and Vineyard. It was a time of renewed faith, a young family and a focused purpose. A time of great involvement and energy with the moves of God and interacting with people. It was as we all have experienced, a season in our lives.
A good one and with many good memories. Now, that’s not to say good memories are not made today but they are different than the ones we made in our youth. So today, take your meds. Search your memories for those songs and release those endorphins. Relive those moments. It’s good for the soul and gives balance to our thought life. This is Doctor Wells saying, “Take your music meds today.”
BEAUTIFUL BY DESIGN
By Irene Surya
Fearfully and wonderfully made, I am created in God’s marvelous image I am knitted with intention and purpose And am uniquely designed.
Though sin has marred The splendid, original design, His grace abounds in magnitude And prods me to grow into His likeness.
Dr. Irene Surya is an awardwinning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.
Though sin has cast its ugly shadow And broken me apart, His power is shown in abundance And perfects my life with its weakness.
Though sin has brought in Unimaginable pain and troubles, His love draws me closer To the comforting touch of His presence.
Though sin has snatched me
As a prey in its weak claws, His tender mercy points me To the incomparable glory in eternity.
Through all the travails and trails In this momentary world, The loving kindness of the Lord Is enough to lead me through every storm.
Click on book to purchase from Amazon.
Laurie Glass has a heart for encouraging others through her writing. She has had many poems and articles published and is the author of Expressing Your Grief: Through Poems and Prayers. Laurie is a staff writer for Chronic Joy, a ministry for those affected by chronic illness and other health issues. In addition, she won the Open Medicine Foundation poetry contest in 2019.
THE ONE
By Laurie Glass
The one who carries you and gives birth.
The one who ushers you into this earth.
The one who will give you all she can.
The one who will be your biggest fan.
The one who loves you no matter what.
The one who is your flesh and blood.
The one who’s with you through good and bad. Then one who cries when you are sad.
The one who misses you when you are gone.
The one who soothes you when things go wrong.
The one who prays for you through thick and thin. The one who helps you to grow within.
The one who becomes one of your friends.
The one who’s there until her life ends.
The one whose leaving will make you sad.
The one you will be so grateful you had.
While not all of our moms are still with us, we are grateful for the love and care they generously bestowed while they were here.
Donna is a preschool curriculum writer for Lifeway and loves teaching two year olds at her church, Hudson First Baptist. She is a retired elementary school media coordinator and K-1 teacher. She loves all children - especially her 4 grandchildren! She loves to read, scrapbook, and make cards. Donna lives in Hudson, NC with her husband, Lewis. They enjoy traveling together.
I’M NOT MOVING
By Donna J. Miller - photos by Donna Miller
My son-in-law, Jimmy, and daughter, Megan, are knee-deep in building a new house for their family which includes eleven-year-old Emmelin and eight-year-old Braylen. I was asking the kids about the new house. Emmelin told me about the colors of her new room and seemed excited.
Braylen, however, shook his head and said, “I’m not moving. I’ve lived in our house for four years and I like it. I am staying.” I reminded him that the new house was on a dead end road and he could ride his bike. No! He was not moving. I reminded him that there was a creek in the back yard. No! Not moving. I said that he would be two houses away from his cousins and have other relatives close by. He said, “I’m staying at my house. I am good.”
Braylen was adopted and his first four years involved several hard moves. It is perfectly understandable why he would want to stay in a house that has become a home and security for him… but I know his dad, mom, and sister are not going to leave him there. They are all four going to move to the new house together. I am also positive that he will be fine once the move is done because his parents know best. He will enjoy his cousins, other family members, the creek, and space to safely ride his bike. Despite his protests, it is going to work out well!
Braylen’s protests, which seem a little silly to us, are the same as how we treat God’s directions to us when we don’t understand His plans. It’s as if we say, “God, I’ve made my plans. Will You bless them and make them Your plans?”
Remember Jonah? God told him to go to Ninevah. Did he? No, he boarded a ship to Tarshish. A storm came up and he finally admitted that he had disobeyed God and told the sailors to throw him into the sea. God prepared a big fish to swallow Jonah and he remained there for three days. After the fish vomited him onto dry land, God told him the second time to go to Ninevah. This time he went and many in Nineveh repented. It would have been easier for Jonah to obey God the first time!
The Bible is full of stories of people who said, “No” to God. You probably also know people personally who have said, “No” to God. I remember a time when my response to God’s plan was, “No, God. I have my own plans.”
Years ago, I was teaching at a school that was a mission field. I loved it even on the hard days. I was going to graduate school to be a media coordinator and my plan was to finish at the same time as our media coordinator retired. Then, I could change jobs but stay at “my” school.
One evening, a friend called and told me that the media coordinator at Sawmills, the school nearest my home, was leaving. My friend said I should apply for the job. Like Braylen, who doesn’t want to move to the new house, my first thoughts were, “No!” I already was confident in my plan to stay at my current school, not move!
As I hung up the phone, I thought, “God, You do want me to stay at my school, don’t You?” I was telling God I already have plans. I hesitated and the thought came to me, a fleece actually, “If You want me to move, seven people need to tell me to move. That was one, and my (current) principal needs to agree.” What? I had never laid down a fleece before. Looking back, I think God knew He had to prove it to me. (Thank goodness, He didn’t prove it by preparing a fish to swallow me!)
In the next twenty-four hours, five more people approached me with the same message, worded very similarly. “The media coordinator at Sawmills is leaving. You should apply.” I was a little unnerved realizing six people had told me. The next morning, thirty-six hours after my first call, I got a phone call at school. It was the Sawmills Media Coordinator. She said, “I am leaving Sawmills. You are going to apply, aren’t you?” I stammered, “Yes, probably.” She was number seven so my principal needed to agree.
My principal was supportive of my work towards a Library Science degree and becoming Media Coordinator at our school. After I hung up on the seventh call, I told my Kindergarten assistant. “I need to go to the office for a minute.” She nodded and I left her with our busy kids.
The principal was seated at her desk and looked up as I came in. On her desk, was the job posting for the Sawmills Media Coordinator position. She picked it up to show me and said, “Sawmills needs a Media Coordinator. You should apply.” I gulped and tears filled my eyes. God had made it obvious that I should apply.
I did apply but it was six months before I was actually hired. That worked out perfectly because I finished the year with my kindergarteners and even visited my new Media Center on a few workdays to get ready.
For several years, I was teary-eyed about leaving my “mission-field” school, but the sixteen years I spent at Sawmills were awesome. It turned out to be a different mission field. I worked with the same children I knew from my church and my community. I am glad that when God told me to move, He made it obvious! He was patient and provided the guidance I needed.
Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”(NIV) God’s plans for us are the best! I pray that as Braylen grows, he will learn to trust that God’s plans for him are best, also.
Mike Buchanan is an author andfreelance writer. His love for writing and poetry, along with his passion to be of help to cancer patients, inspired him to author the book “Mountains of Hope: Surrounding the Valley of Cancer.” This inspirational book provides dailydoses of encouragement for those challenged by the disease. He recently published his most recent book, Feeling Down? Look Up!! Mike is also a featured contributing writer for several Christian magazines. Mike and his wife, Darlene, live in Buckeye, Arizona.
Tribute To Moms
By Mike Buchanan
I’m not sure they’ve ever gotten the love they deserve, and now it might be worse than ever. Yet, without mothers, where would we be?
I’m old enough to remember when moms didn’t have to work, if they didn’t want to do so. I believe women should work , if they choose. I also believe they should be paid as much as men.
But mothers bring so much to the family. They are usually the peacekeepers, combat medics, cheerleaders, and counselors and much more for their families. Moms are the hugs when the kids come home, the kiss for the husband when he walks in from work. It’s important for the family to let mom know they appreciate EVERYTHING she does for the family.
My dad died when I was 11, and my younger sister was 9. Without “applying” for it, she was given the job of single mom. To this day, I believe it’s the most difficult job in existence (no, not just because she had to deal with me in my teenage years). To be honest, I didn’t always show her the love and respect I should have. And I wish she was hear to tell her.
Single moms have to wear multiple hats. They have to be mother and father, breadwinner, taxi driver, and all the things I mentioned a traditional Mom has to do. They often have to do it without much help from people. If you know a single mom, offer her help, even if it’s just to talk or babysit.
For adults who still have their moms, if you haven’t done it recently, let your mother know how much she means to you. You don’t have to wait for Mother’s Day, her birthday, or Christmas, any day will work. It doesn’t have to cost anything (my daughter wrote a poem for her mom that brought her to tears in a good way). If things have been strained, offer an apology. Yes, I know you might not have done anything wrong, but take a step.
I couldn’t write this without mentioning a few special moms. My wife, Darlene Buchanan, was a single mother, before we met. She was doing an amazing job even before I showed up. Her daughter, Jennifer Williams, is now doing a fantastic job with her husband of raising 2 boys and 1 girl. My mom, Anne Buchanan, chose to be a single mother for the 15 years between dad’s death and hers. She didn’t go back to work, because of Dad’s retirement. She loved and cared for us kids as much and as best as she could.
For those of you reading this, whether mothers or not, don’t stop reading just yet, please. The most important parent you can ever have is God. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for all our sins (the things we do God sees as bad). Jesus didn’t stay dead. He arose from the dead after three days. Because of that, He offers you eternal life. Will you take His offer? Just admit you’re a sinner, (we all are) confess you believe Jesus died and rose again, ask forgiveness for your sins, and ask Jesus to take control of your life.
Brianna is a Carolina girl who loves Jesus and her family. She enjoys watching the sunrise, photography, reading, writing, and paddleboarding. According to her teenage son, she’s a master chef in the kitchen, making gluten-free cuisine from around the world. Her writing and photography have appeared in numerous publications including Faith On Every Corner, Creation Illustrated, and Our Story Magazine, and she is a contributor to The Grit and Grace Project and Broken But Priceless Magazine where she writes the column, “From A Homemaker’s Heart”. Her first devotional book, “Hope in the Healing: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through Chronic Illness” is due out this spring. Check out her latest works at www.briannagrams.com and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
Life Lessons Learned At Summer Camp / Part One
By Brianna Barrett
ISummer camp wasn’t one of the highlights of my childhood. It wouldn’t even make the top 10. It was a dreaded place. A “don’t make me go back again” kind of time. But looking back over thirty years ago, I did learn life lessons during that summer. It was mid-June, and a cool mountain breeze rippled across the lake that day. My mind was full of anticipation and dread as my group gathered to do our swim test at camp. Everyone was required to do the swim test and tread water to be granted access to the pier in the middle of the lake that held a rope swing.
Swimming, I was fine at. But treading water was going to be a lot harder for my little seven-year-old arms and legs. The lifeguard called our group, and we all jumped into the lake. I quickly swam toward the middle of the lake, as instructed. Once i reached my destination, I started to tread water for the minute required to pass the test.
I felt so alone on that mountain lake that day, moving my arms across the water, holding my head above the water while synchronizing my legs in time. I was watching at the lifeguard, who had an orange whistle in their mouth, ready to dive into the lake if any of the three of us testing went under. My legs and arms grew tired during that test, and I began to get slower and slower, barely able to hold my body up. I cried out to Jesus to help me.
The irony isn’t lost on me that our Heavenly Father watches over us like the lifeguard did that day. He is there during the low moments of our lives and the moments when we are flailing against the current, trying not to drown. At times, those struggles can feel like a heavy anchor pulling us under. God is waiting for us to surrender, to stop fighting, to allow Him into our pain and circumstances.
The story of Jesus walking on water, found in all four gospels (Matthew 14:22-33, Mark 6:45-53, John 6:16-21), encouraged me that day. Jesus had sent the disciples ahead of him to Bethsaida after he had fed more than 5,000 people. He had gone to be alone and pray, telling the disciples he would catch up with them. The next time the disciples saw him, He was out in the water in the middle of a storm, yet He didn’t fear what was ahead; He continued to walk towards the disciples' boat. Jesus walked on the water towards the boat. He didn’t let his disciples just hang out there in the storm; instead, He walked towards them. He was there to reassure them not to fear. He was with them. These passages remind me that in my strength, I can’t do things. I will fail, I’m not capable, BUT with Christ, I can do anything.
When we focus on our circumstances, it’s easy to get consumed by them, but when we focus our eyes on things above, asking God for strength, we can do anything. In Matthew 14:22-33, Peter is invited out onto the water to meet Jesus, to walk on water. Peter walked on water, until he lost focus, until he let the circumstances consume him. Yet Jesus reached out his hand and saved him.
When we keep our focus on God we are able to face the storms in life. We are able to have peace that surpasses all understanding because trusting that God is in control brings peace (Proverbs 3:5-6).
I passed that sixty-second test, but only by the strength of God. When I grew weary and tired, God strengthened me to continue, because I focused on Him. Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13 NKLJV) I couldn’t do it without Him, and He never asked us to do it alone.
The next time you feel like you're treading water, or about to drown in your circumstances, I encourage you to remember Jesus walks on water towards us, Peter walked on water because he focused on Christ and didn’t doubt, and the Lord gives us strength to do the impossible.
What circumstances are you facing today that you need you turn over to Christ? What circumstance has you losing your footing slipping into the waters?
Mike Hall is in his 45th year as a teacher and has authored two collections of poetry, Autumn’s Back Porch and Thinking Out Loud. His work has appeared in a variety of online magazines including Pure in Heart Stories, Discretionary Love, Solid Food Press, Spirit Fire Review, and Agape Review. He and his wife, Cynthia, live in the Dallas, Texas area.
CONNECTED
by Mike Hall
A boat is connected to an anchor to prevent its drifting aimlessly to the current’s whim. A kite is connected to string to secure and guide it in its wind-aided flight. A house is connected to a foundation to provide support when storms beat against its walls.
We are connected, tethered to each other by our hope . . . by our faith in His promise, none of us perfect . . . all of us in need, a community of broken souls, a gathering of forgiven people, yet healing through communal love and kindness.
Our connection gives us strength when struggles come, for when we are weak, together we are strong. Our connection gives us comfort when sorrow strikes, for when we are at our lowest, others will lift us up. Our connection provides safe harbor when tempests blow, for when we feel battered, others will protect us. Our connection allows us to receive love when needed most, for when we feel worthless, others will embrace us.
In the beginning God saw it was not good for us to be alone. We were meant to be connected –to share . . . to laugh . . . to work . . . to play . . . to love –but mostly, we were created to be connected to Him. He is our anchor . . . He is our guide . . . He is our firm foundation.
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YOU BEFORE ME
He must increase, but I must decrease.
-John 3:30 NASB
What would You have me be?
Open my eyes so I can see. Make my life fresh and new So others see You through me. I begin to think it through, Less of me, more of You.
I pray my life to be one with You. Make my heart loving and true. Let my trust in You set me free –Selfless acts putting You in view. Let me become what you want me to be. More of You, less of me.
When my life is on full review
Being measured if honest and true, May it be I bore good fruit for others to see, Serving all . . . not just a choice few, So others could easily see, I always placed You before me.
BECAUSE OF HIS LOVE
The angelic host was poised and alert. Just one word would send them on their rescue mission, erasing humanity’s most cruel act. Their purpose was to obey and heed His call. They watched the agony He endured, but He chose not to call them to His aid. They watched as the executioners mocked Him, urging Him to make the call . . . to save Himself. Theirs was a constant vigil throughout the afternoon. Maybe they even looked over their shoulder to the Father, awaiting His command to intercede but only observed His silence as the drama unfolded. The sky darkened . . . They still waited. They heard His anguished cry ring out –questioning the why, questioning the desertion –but He still refused to summon His angelic army. They heard His final words, “It is finished,” His body hanging limply from the cross, the nails piercing His hands and feet, refusing to release His human form. But it was not the nails that kept Him there . . . It was His refusal to beckon His heavenly army. It was because of His love for us all.
Note: Inspired by the hymn, It Was Love That Kept Him Nailed to the Tree, written by C. W. Brown
https://bit.ly/roroscommunications
GETTING OLDER
Rolanda T. Pyle
There are two sides to getting older One where you have gained wisdom that makes you bolder But then there is the side when your body starts to fail Aches, pains, diseases …things that make you ail.
There is the respect you get from others as you age And the joy you feel each time, you turn another page… …Of your life, that causes you to reflect on where you’ve been And how you want to spend the rest of your life before it ends!
Often our bodies break down and won’t cooperate More medical appointments, checkups and prescriptions to medicate Our pace is slower and often memory dims And we can feel the pain in our joints and limbs.
If we live long enough, there’s one thing for sure We can flip the script on aging, and accomplish more and more Thank God, the best thing about getting older is that we are still here To fulfill all our dreams and enjoy this life, we hold so dear.
Look at woman, watch her sway! For she knows this is her day.
Standing tall in all her glory You can bet she has a story, Of a life filled with love, sacrifice and care That causes her as she ages to be aware
Of others trying to figure out her secret weapon That through hard times has kept her steppin’ Could it be the beauty from inside that seeps out? Mixed with her strength and experience which seem to shout
Look at me, watch me sway! For I know this is my day.
Rolanda T. Pyle (c) All Rights Reserved
Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/ songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and awardwinning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.
Peace In The Pressure Cooker
By Shara Bueler-Repka
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength”—Isaiah 26:3-4.
“How can we do it all?” I screamed in my head. My whole being wanted to pick something up and throw it. My husband, Bruce and I had pulled into our destination from an exceptionally long trip. Apparently, I was more exhausted than I realized. As I watched the sun quickly dip toward the horizon, my mind raced: We needed to set up “camp” in this unfamiliar place; I needed to trim my horse’s feet; Groceries needed to be put up; Dinner needed to be fixed; And huge gopher holes gaped in the horse pen that NEEDED plugging up. On and on the needs list went, filling my mind to overflowing. The volcano (my brain at the moment) was primed to blow and blow hard.
I heard that ‘still small Voice’ say, “Take a deep breath.” And then, “What do you NEED to do right now, and what can wait for tomorrow?” As one does with a person who is “losing it,” it seemed the Lord stood in front of me saying, “Uncross your eyes and look at Me ... look at Me!” I took a deep breath and corralled the chaos in my mind. Sifting through the list, an amazing calm quieted me. Like loading cows in a chute, I slowly and patiently sorted the “to-do’s.”
The “right now” priorities got herded first. The rest got left in the “holding pen” for the next day.
Our life is not lived in a white-picket-fence world where farriers, veterinarians, the mailbox, and Walmart are always at our fingertips. The things we used to take for granted when we lived in a permanent place take more thoughtful figuring now. At each stop (camp, if you will), we have to assess the best feed places (for horses and humans), find water, locate a can to dump our trash, scout out electricity availability, search for the all-important place to dump our poop (for horses and humans), and ... laundry? If we stay in someone’s backyard or ranch, there’s a settling into the ebb and flow of that particular place—and no two places are alike.
Besides singing/preaching, we’ve engaged in a wide variety of activities—everything from digging ditches to working on ranches, managing stick horse rodeos to recording albums and holing up with our families to help through crazy times. Dull moments are never a problem!
God is not in the business of overwhelming us. So, when I start painting the proverbial target on the wall that beckons to “bang head here,” I stop drawing and ask the Lord, “What in my life is important to YOU?” And equally, “What isn’t?” What needs to stay? What needs to go that I don’t want to let go? What needs streamlining? Maybe I need an attitude adjustment—stop whining and toughen up. (Hebrews 12:1-2)
The key is to know the difference. Thankfully, He is right there to guide us in the culling process—to give wisdom, and to help us follow peace (James 1:5). “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light,” encourages the Lord in Matthew 11:28-30.
One can easily get off track. Jobs, finances, kids, school, church, family, spouses, animals, politics—the cares of the world surround all these things. Balancing acts are performed to keep everything moving so “life” doesn’t collapse ... why? Why do we think everything we do qualifies for what we’re supposed to do? There are many good projects, but how many are God-projects? Who’s calling the shots—God, us, or others? Who is the only voice that matters?
Bruce and I have learned to pray: “Lord, we plan our steps (including lists), but you direct our path” (Proverbs 16:9). Our lives should never be so hectic that we lose our joy and peace. (Psalm 127:1-2). And we certainly don’t ever want to miss an opportunity from Him because we’re focused on our plans instead of His. (1 Corinthians 14:33) Through trial and error we’ve learned that Jesus and His way are peace.
He is our peace in the “pressure cooker.”
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”—John 14:
Karen is the publisher of Faith On Every Corner Magazine. She is an author of children’s books and devotional books. New books will be released soon!
Little Jesus Dolls
By Karen Ruhl
One day while shopping at the grocery store, I found a little Jesus doll in the freezer section. I smiled and decided to let him stay for others to find him too. I smiled as I finished my shopping and went through check out. I drove home and while I was putting away the groceries, I started getting an idea.
Leap of Faith bookstore is in Lenoir - near me. I must tell you that she is one of the clients I work with on their marketing. I went in the next day and I bought a dozen little Jesus dolls. Not quite sure how God would guide me on what to do with them. It didn’t take long to see where I was to give these dolls out. If you have not seen one of these dolls, they are very small, about an inch high. So you can imagine what a surprise when I looked in that frozen food freezer.
So armed with my Jesus dolls, I prayed and asked God to show me how I can use them and to be with me and guide me as I hand them out. Some churches have made a fun event with their youth and have had them hide the dolls all over town for people to find. I may do that one day, but I kept waiting to see how the Jesus doll could make an impact.
One of the first dolls given out was during our church worship service. One mom had brought her little girl (around 5 years old) to sit with her. Here daddy was preaching that day and I believe the mom wanted their daughter to witness his preaching. (Which was wonderful). But as with any young child, she started getting a little restless. Her mom was doing all she could to quiet her and was doing a great job but the little girl was ready for the end of the sermon! I knew the mom and toutched her arm and showed her the doll, her mom smiled and let me know I could give it to her daugher. The young girl smiled and played with it for awhile. Now, let me tell you this, the little girl is wonderful and she was very good, she just got restless - and don’t we all some times!
So after that experience, I started thinking about little ones and how Jesus can get their attention in many ways. I have had many opportunities to give the little doll to many children. I have had to refill several times and carry the Jesus doll everywhere I go.
This all started by me finding one of the dolls at the store. I would love to meet the person who put him there and ask if they are still sharing Jesus in that way.
Walking The Cross During Holy Week
This is an amazing event. I was able to walk this year, something I have wanted to do for years. Our walk started at our church this year, but I understand it rotates each year.
As the event started, the reason we do this was explained and then the Pastor from our church spoke, read scripture and we all sang a song. Honestly, it gave me chills as we saw the cross picked by volunteers and taken to the various stations in the walk. The second stop was a Methodist Church and the Pastor spoke, prayed and we all sang another song. This church was next otohours so not too much of a walk yet. After that, we walked into our town, it was a nice walk. We went to the City Hall and again scripture, prayer, and songs. After that, we made two more stops, one at a local store on the same street and then the last stop was at a Lutheran church where we heard a story, heard scripture, sang, and then we all were invited in to share lunch with one another.
While I am writing this after Easter, what Jesus did for us on the cross is not a one day event. Some ask why God allowed His son to be put to death. Jesus’ death was a sacrificial atonement, where he took upon himself the punishment for human sin. He did this for us. When we receive Jesus into our hearts, our sins are forgiven and we are reconciled with God.
While walking the stations, people would switch and take turns carrying the cross. They actually pulled it, it had a couple of wheels to make it manageable. At this particular stop, a young boy asked if he could carry the cross. He quietly asked and was told he could help carry it to the last stop. This was not a fun event for him, you could tell this young boy knew Jesus and was listening at each stop along the way.
I hope that one day, you can take a part of this amazing event. It is a walk you won’t forget. The prayers and songs keep everyone focused on why we were doing this walk. Watching the cross being carried by different people was touching. Find out if there is a church or churches that do t his in your area and mark the date on your calendar for next year.
If you have not given your life to Jesus, here is a simple prayer to help you if you are ready today:
“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I ask you to forgive me and come into my heart. I want to follow you as my Lord and Savior. Amen.”
Blessings to your day.
Photograph by Karen Ruhl
As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns.
Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.
PAINFUL PRAISE
By Linda Castro
“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.” (Psalm 34:1-2 NIV)
“I’m sorry.” The doctor said to me looking at the test results report in his hand. “But it looks like this is what we were expecting. It is not fatal, but it is, currently, incurable.”
His words didn’t really register as I looked at him. “Incurable”? I repeated.
“Yes.” The doctor responded. “We can try various medications but we really don’t have anything yet that has worked long-term. The best we can do is, hopefully, control the symptoms.”
That conversation was three years ago. We have tried many medications to this point and I am currently on a “last resort” medication before bringing in something from another country.
I’ve gone through lots of tests and had problems with the anesthesia so all the testing must be done in a hospital. The last flare-up was severely painful. And after a trip by ambulance to the Emergency Room at the hospital in a nearby city, all I could do was simply praise God for seeing me through and allowing me to encourage others.
God can turn our pain into praise! Why didn’t God heal me? I believe sometimes God uses our suffering whether it is illness, grief, financial difficulties, etc. to draw us closer to Him and share His grace with others. He can actually use it for good in our lives.
As someone once said “Jesus experienced the depths of human suffering during His time on Earth, so He knows what you’re going through.”
As Paul said in the Bible to the Philippians “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 1:6 KJV).
God has a plan for each of us. And He is always aware of our situation, good or bad. So, how does God handle our suffering? In one word - “Peace”.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27 KJV).
Our suffering is not a surprise to God. He has already made a way for us to get through it with His help and His guidance. When my only child died, even though he was in a wheelchair here on earth, I was comforted by the scripture that gave me peace knowing he was no longer in a wheelchair but jumping, running and walking all over Heaven! God gave me that peace to get me through my suffering. If you have lost a loved one, God’s peace is right there waiting to comfort you. He is holding you in His arms.
So, what is “Painful Praise”?
If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, God has accepted you as one of His beloved children and will help you through any suffering in this life while preparing a wonderful life for you in Heaven!
Just remember, praise God in the good and the bad. He will love you through it!
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7).
Book Reviews
by Karen Ruhl
Do I still Need My Head Examined, or Just a New Pair of Running Shoes? by Mitchell Milch (Click on the book to purchase on Amazon) I highly recommend this book!
I am adding a couple of 5 star rating posts from Amazon. Mitchell is a memoir that will hold your attention and may just help you as you read his story.
“Milch has fought hard to be where he is now, channeling the hurt from a childhood of neglect into a warrior-like mentality. Ever striving for a better life, Milch discovered the transformative power of running. This sport, which he excelled at from the start, soon changed his life as reciprocally shaped by his growth experiences in psychotherapy.”
“Written with striking emotional depth, Do I Still Need My Head Examined, or Just a New Pair of Running Shoes? shows us the power to tackle the marathon of life is often found inside our own hearts.”
I have been reading and will reread this book by Mitchell. You can click on the photo of the book to purchase. I highly recommend it.
This has quickly become one of my favorite posts to look for on Facebook. Jody is a photographer and has several Acorn Whimsy books published. To find out more about his books, click on the link below:
https://www.photoperch.com/Acorn-Man
Mitchell is a former Psychotherapist in Retirement. He Studied American History at SUNY Binghamton MSW and studied English Literature.
https://www.facebook.com/ArtisticMindsets
Perhaps Blind Faith Is In Truth Not Blind
by Mitchell Milch
Hebrews: 11:1-
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Do the eyes of our soul perhaps see things that our visual gateways to God’s universe are blind to? Is the seat of such vision our imaginations that develop soulful acuity with the daily practice of spiritual disciplines? These are questions I began to ponder on the heels of a phone call with someone near and dear to me. This loved one is very anxious about what she cannot see around the next corner and the anxiety tends to write narratives that foreshadow gloom and doom. I openly wonder to what degree this woman of little faith in God is truly blind to God’s spectacular possibilities. Is faith blind or are the faithless blind to God’s redemptive blueprints for His kingdom?
Most believers I rub elbows with concur with my belief in the notion that God is omnipresent and exempt from the linear scientific restrictions placed on His followers. Yet, every generation gives birth to those made in God’s image whose perspectives defy the boundaries between the past, present and the future. I could chalk up Da Vinci or Verne’s prescient prognostications to “blind faith,” but their visions have been so eerily on target that I surmise faith is not blind but conversely opened up their eyes to horizons they would otherwise have been oblivious to. Seemingly, not all believers are gifted such vision in the same manner that not all believers are equipped by our Lord to to be missionaries. It’s quite spectacular how some of us are able to channel and interpret aspects of God’s plans for us floating in the spiritual ether.
As a baptized Christian close to three years ago I am much more likely to see light at the end of tunnels that bend in multiple directions. How about you?
I am a freelance writer, author, novelist, cartoonist, short story writer, poet, actor, stand-up comedian, magician, musician, juggler, and a variety of other things. I received my B.A. degree from Indiana University. My paying career was working in real estate, but I recently retired and I am enjoying other pursuits. My work can be seen on YouTube and Sound Cloud and my books are available at Amazon.com and Lulu.com.
I Love You, Mom
By David Sowards
I love you, Mom, for your advice.
Though I ignore some, still very nice. I love you, Mom, for the cookies you bake.
And for your pizzas, lasagna, and cake. I love you, Mom, for the way you care.
When I am down, you’re always there.
I love you, Mom, for taking me on trips. For helping me up, for wiping my lips.
Thank you, Mom, for buying me stuff.
You always make sure I have enough. Thank you, Mom, for all that you teach me.
I’ll be there when you want to reach me. Thank you, Mom, for being my friend. You’ll be with me until the end.
I love you, Mom, for helping me out.
For letting me know what life is about. I love you, Mom, for lending a hand. You showed me how to understand.
I love you, Mom, for all that you do. Every day I am happy that I have you.
I love you, Mom, even when you yell. It’s for a good reason, I can tell.
I love you, Mom, for your instructing.
To keep me from self-destructing.
I love you, Mom, though you make me work. And keep me too busy to act like a jerk.
You punished me when I was bad. But calmed me when I was sad. There were times I made you mad. Offset by times I made you glad. You told me what I needed to know.
What I should do, where I should go.
You told me what I should say. How should I find my own way. What I should do, where I should go. You told me what I should say. How should I find my own way.
But it’s not about me or about you. Or how I survive when I’m without you. No price can pay for all that you do
On every day, I love you!
Road Trippin with Susan Strawn / Photographer
Tulips and daffodils seem to be a sign that winter is coming to an end and spring is just around the corner.
In March and April, I spent a few weeks touring The Netherlands. Windmills and tulips were high on my list of things to see. And I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Being a country largely under sea level, The Netherlands faced a constant threat of flooding. The windmills were able to take care of this problem and now number more than 1200...many are still in operation. They are fascinating pieces of “machinery” that I don’t quite understand its operation but I do understand how important it is and was to this country.
Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest flower garden and is renowned for its spring display of tulips and daffodils. There are many, many flower beds...the daffodils were in full bloom and the tulips were just beginning to bloom while I walked the garden. It was a joy to walk through with over 7 million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths bulbs.
Flowers are a part of God’s creation reminding me of His presence and love.
Susan is an award winning photographer - and a great friend. Her photos are beautiful, enjoy!
Andrea is heavenly minded. Often misunderstood, her perspective is one of hope beyond this world according to Hebrews 11:16. As such, she is passionate about sharing the Gospel with the lost and hurting. Her book, ‘The Hobble, from Ai to Bethel’ draws upon God’s timeless truths for eternal life. Andrea enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with family and good friends. She is currently a coach with the online ministry, ‘Groundwire/ Jesus cares’, helping others discover the love and saving grace ofJesus Christ. Anyone who knows Andrea knows she lives with great anticipation of the Lord appearing in the clouds to rapture His church.
Deprived or Blessed - our call.
By Andrea Marino
Today, we can see we are living in a world of deception. Jeremiah 9:6. Jesus said the trickery would be so great that even the ‘elect’ could be fooled. Mathew 24:24. I don’t believe this refers to a blood-bought believer losing his or her salvation, because the rest of the verse states, “if it were possible”. I discern the Lord putting emphasis on the deep extent to which the powers of darkness operate in to confuse, so to kill, steal, and destroy. Jesus warned His disciples to be ‘wise as serpents, innocent as a doves’. Mathew 10:16
Through the prophet Haggai, the word of the Lord was given to Zerubbable, governor of Judah to rebuild the temple. The people were concerned about building their own houses and basically “putting their wages put into a bag with a hole in it,” (Haggai 1:6).
Are we ever satisfied; do we ever acquire enough? As followers of Jesus, we, like the people of aggai’s day are to be about ‘building the house of God’- cleaning up these temples of ours that house the Holy Spirit. I would hope that with all the scandalous exposure going on with big- name TV teacher/preachers, we would see the necessity of this, getting our lives more in line with all God says we should be and do. Surrender to Him helps us avoid the void of discontentment so prevalent in the world.
The people in Haggai’s day heeded the warning, for they feared God. And they began working on the house of their God, to which He, “I am with you”. Haggai 1: 12,13. The church of Jesus Christ is being called to come up higher, to be like Jesus. The Lord demonstrated strength, as ell as meekness. He wasn’t at all weak. Now, it is God who does this work in believers; we yield to Him in surrender. While we are to enjoy God’s blessings in our current life, may we be concerned with building His Kingdom, far greater and better than any kingdom of this world- a world that is swiftly coming to an end.
Whom the Son sets free is free indeed. And the promise God made to Israel is to us as well. Having taken them out of Egypt (where they lived under bondage) Holy Spirit was among them so they need not be afraid. Haggai 2:4. Who should want to remain in endless search of temporary things that can never satisfy? Silver and gold belong to the God of Abraham, Isaac,and Jacob. Furthermore, trouble is clearly on the horizon. God warns, “I am once more going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all the nations so that the treasure of all the nations will come, and I fill the house with glory.” Haggai 2:6-9.
Photographer: Susan Strawn
Photograph by Karen Ruhl
Photograph by Karen Ruhl
Faith On Every Corner Publishing
We have read over 160 books and offered our reviews in issues of Faith On Every Corner. On this journey, we have met many wonderful writers who have experienced the trials and pitfalls of becoming published authors. We first learned of a woman who wrote a beautiful book, only to be taken advantage of by an unscrupulous publisher. She and her husband lost thousands of dollars they could ill afford to lose. We helped her republish her book while she kept all rights to her work. Since then, we have found that there are many writers who shared her terrible experiences.
In response, the team at Faith On Every Corner developed a very affordable package of services for writers who would like to publish their book. Our knowledge and experience includes:
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