Faith On Every Corner September 2025 by Faith On Every Corner

September 2025 Award

Psalm 42:7-8:

“Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me”.

Winning Photographer

Sonia Sousa

Photographer: Sonia Sousa

Sonia Sousa - Photographer, Writer, Content Creator, Digital Storyteller ometown: Stuart, Florida

My interest in photography sparked during the years of my early twenties. This led to experimenting with my father’s 35mm Mamiya film cameras and processing Kodachrome film in the darkroom of my parents’ printing and typography business. I became further intrigued by the results of the film development process and manipulating the highlight and shadow areas of the film to achieve incredible results. Each strip of film was pinned to a line to dry, backlit by the red darkroom lights.

Fast forward to the digital age where I took those self-taught basics and applied them to the digital post-processing of the images I capture out in the field, essentially creating unique art. With a keen eye for composition, my personal style is detailed and colorful, capturing the intrinsic beauty of the varied subjects in front of my lens.

My time is well-balanced between family, friends, working full time and as an active Board member for Audubon of Martin County, a volunteer for the Treasure Coast Shorebird Alliance, Treasure Coast Photography Group and the Treasure Coast Photography Center. Through all of this, there is still time to allocate towards photographing nature’s most memorable moments.

“Passionate about creating art through my lens - A little obsessed with birds.”

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor

September - the beginning of Fall

August was a mixture of rain, heat, and then cool temperatures. I don’t know about you, but I am ready for Fall. For one thing, I get to go out and shoot nature and Fall is one of favorite times. So much color! And, my birthday is September 13th!

What is your favorite time of year??

I want to extend an invitation for you to send articles and poetry to our magazine. We love hearing from our readers. If you want more information, please send me an email to Team@ faithoneverycorner.com.

So I must admit that this summer has been relatively quiet. Although my dear friend Donna took me to the Billy Graham Library. Oh My Goodness. If you have a chance to go - please do. It is not really a library, although I guess having so much of his personal items makes it a great place to showcase them. I will have some photos in my road trippping this month. Take a look.

Did you do anything exciting this summer you would like to share with us? You can send me a story, and photos at Team@Faithoneverycorner.com.

Damien came to visit me this month and got to spend the night twice!! Oh my goodness, my grandson is so handsome and is getting so big. My heart swells when he is around me. “I love you grandma,” is my favorite thing to hear from him. But playing and laughing makes my heart swell twice its size. I love you Damien!!

I love you all too. Thank you to our faithful writers and to you, our faithful readers. Karen Team@faithoneverycorner.com

Loving my grandson!! He is getting so big and is so happy!

COVER AND PHOTOS By SONIA SOUSA

Thank you for sharing your photos with us, Sonia

Poetry ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7

A Change In The Weather ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9

Modern Day Worship ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11

Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic ... by Donna J. Miller.. Page 12-13

Morning Coffee ... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15

As I Wait ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16

Seed by Kris Green ... Page 17

The Day I Found My Idols ... By Brianna Barrett ... Pages 18-19

The Beauty God Shares ... by Karen Ruhl ... Page 20-21

Forgiveness ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Pages 22-23 (Reprint)

A tribute to Nicole ... by Nicole Byrum ... Pages 24-25

Sometimes God Moves Not in a Way We Think He is Going To ... Richard D. Waters ... Pages 26-27

Second Chances ... By Linda Castro ... Pages 28-29

Blooming Through Adversity ... by Melissa Gween Meek ... Pages 30-31

Please pray for our children all over the world. So many disasters. With school back in, let’s pray for the safety of the children, teachers, janitors and everyone working in the school system..

Confessions of a Door Greeter... By Kris Green ... Pages 32 (Reprint)

Pucker Pass ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Page 5

Please Read

The last two issues had mistakes in two articles. I work hard and try to proof the magazine, but there are times when I miss something. To all of the wonderful writers who send in submissions, thank you for your constant support. I have edited the stories and they are in this issue, marked reprint in the index.

Much love and many blessings to you, Karen

September

John Alexander It started with my first day of school and continues even today. September still reminds me of transitions, causes me to pause and reflect, looking back over the past year and looking forward to what’s yet to come. This month I’ve selected poems related to those thoughts. I pray they’re a blessing to you.

John Alexander QuietTimeRhymes.com

Journey To Rhyme

I began sharing words my last season of life, Even later in rhyme as they treated my wife, While she bravely endured all the treatments and meds,

The surgeries, therapies, struggles ahead. As I watched her go through it, I wrote my first rhyme, Sitting in waiting rooms passing the time. I wrote of a mouse who was cheerful and brave Though she lived in a dumpster and trash came in waves.

That started a journey I’m still on today, Each poem allowing my heart to convey A thought or an image I find in my heart. I pray as I write that I’m doing my part In spreading God’s message, His grace from above, That others may know Him accepting His love.

Transitions

The first September morning chill, At last, the summer’s had its fill, Allowed the heat to loose its grip. Thermometers once more can dip. I’m grateful Lord, the perfect blend When summer heat comes to an end. The sun will shine, provide the light, The temperature will be just right. A respite Lord, cool sunny day, A welcomed gift You’ve sent my way. I’m grateful Lord for each new morn Through all the days since I was born. There’s something ‘bout the hint of fall, Brings memories that I recall, That linger still inside my soul, That mark transitions young to old.

Reflecting

As I pause to look back on my life at this stage, Review my life’s book and reflect on each page, I’ve learned what has value God’s placed in my life, Some I found easily, others through strife.

I can see life more clearly, this book’s near the end.

I cherish the people I’ve known as a friend. I value the wisdom from others who write, Provide new perspectives that they bring to light. I cherish the love that God placed in my heart, The faith and assurance He’ll never depart. He gives me the courage and strength for each day, What I need to help others I meet ‘long the way. As I stand at this stage of my life and my walk Lord help me share love as I write, and I talk.

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

A Change In The Weather

By Melissa Henderson

School is back in session. Displays of holiday decorations fill local department stores. Sweaters, coats, and other cold-weather clothing are listed as sale items. Preparations for a new season have begun. A change in temperatures makes me want to bring out the bins of warmer clothing. Does a change in the weather mean a change in my thoughts and actions?

I love something about every season. Growing up in Virginia, I was accustomed to four distinct seasons each year. Spring brought sprouts of beautiful flowers and the planting of vegetables. Summer brought the need for air conditioning, sweet tea, homemade lemonade, and playing outside from morning until night. Fall meant apple picking and wearing sweatshirts. Winter meant snow, sledding, and days off from school due to inclement weather.

When Alan and I moved to South Carolina, we found that the temperatures stay warm most of the year. We laughed at the folks who wore coats and sweaters when the air registered 65 degrees. Now, we are “those folks”. It’s funny how soon we became two of the locals instead of two visitors from another state.

Today, the rain is tapping on the roof and windows. Hummingbirds continue to play and drink from the feeders. Downy woodpeckers aren’t bothered by the water pelting their feathers. Rain is part of the environment, and they have learned to adjust. I wonder if I adjust as easily as the animals. Thinking about this, I realize that I complain when the air is too hot. I complain when the temps are too cold. Why am I not satisfied with any type of weather?

Of course, hurricanes are another matter. The Lowcountry of South Carolina has continuing preparations for bad weather. From wind to flooding to power outages, hurricanes can cause destruction. We watch the news reports, listen to the weather channels, and prepare for a change in the weather.

As believers, do we prepare to share the gospel with others? Shall we wait until something bad happens before we tell someone that they are loved by God? Our readiness should begin when we ask Jesus to come into our hearts. When we accept God into our lives, we have the responsibility to share His love and message with others.

Does that mean we’ll always say the right words? No, we will fail at times. When we have opportunities to let people know they are loved by God, we can pray first and ask God to give us the words to share. When we can’t speak out loud, we can lift the person in prayer. God hears. God listens. God answers.

The weather may change. Spring, summer, winter, and fall will come every year. The love of God never changes. His love is forever.

Have you shared the love of God with others? Look at your surroundings. Someone needs to know His mercy and forgiveness.

“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” (Isaiah 40:8 NIV)

In His Name, 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)

Modern Day Worship

By Yvonne M. Morgan

“They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen” Romans 1:25 (NLT).

Worship

I enjoy singing worship songs at church. The lyrics touch my heart as I raise my hands to praise my almighty King. However, sometimes I don't feel the same way. Problems often distract me, and I focus on life instead of focusing on God. Worship is not just about singing praises. True worship means loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. It means valuing God above everything else. So, what causes us to lose our focus on worship?

An Example of True Worship

Chapter three of the Book of Daniel introduces us to three young men: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. They are friends of Daniel. These brave young men hold on to their faith in God and continue to worship Him, even when threatened by King Nebuchadnezzar. The king made a golden image and required everyone to worship it. Disobedience meant being thrown into a fiery furnace, and unfortunately, the three friends fell into this category. Their story is an inspiration for worshiping God, even in difficult circumstances.

Modern Day Worship

Christianity emphasizes the importance of understanding biblical worship. To begin, we should reflect on God's greatness and acknowledge that He deserves our praise. Keep your mind and heart focused on God as you offer your praise. Although we may not face literal fiery furnaces, temptations to worship man-made idols surround us. These idols can include wealth, comfort, careers, and fame. If we reject these worshiped things, the world may reject or ridicule us. Despite criticism or mockery, we must remain steadfast in our faith and continue to worship our Heavenly Father.

Worship during the Hardships

Perhaps idols do not separate us from freely worshiping Christ; instead, it is our hardships that interfere with our worship of God. However, let us be encouraged, for God did not abandon the three men in the fiery furnace. He stood with them, and His presence was clear to all. This scene shows God's miraculous intervention. It teaches us that these men trusted God even without a guarantee of deliverance. Despite the possibility of perishing in the flames, they remained steadfast in their worship. In our own lives, we will also face hardships, but we can find assurance in knowing that God stands with us during these trials. As our faith deepens, we learn to worship God regardless of our circumstances.

Prayer in the Fiery Furnace

God Almighty, I worship You. You are the one who is all-sufficient and the source of every blessing I have. Thank you, that even when things seem impossible to me, you are a God of endless possibilities and worthy of all praise and honor. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

Reflect

What things interfere with your worship?

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!

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.

Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic

By Donna J. Miller

It’s that time of year! The stores are full of pencils, crayons, and notebooks.Excitement and anticipation are mixed with a dose of fear and trepidation. Teachers, parents, and students all have mixed feelings as summer comes to an end and school begins.

A new school year is an exciting time for me. I am retired! I don’t have to go back to school! No more bulletin boards, class lists, open houses, copies to make, and students to meet. But if I am honest, I miss the excitement and new beginnings. I miss the children and my fellow teachers! I miss the joy of choosing new notebooks and pens.

School is an opportunity for students to grow and learn. Proverbs 18:15 says: “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” People of all ages should seek knowledge and desire to learn. Teachers often spend part of their summer taking courses to help them be better teachers, to learn new techniques of teaching, and to find new tools to teach learners who struggle.

Children are excited when they learn something new… I remember a third grader who had been assigned to research Walt Disney. She came to me with the biography she was reading and was excited to show me that Walt Disney was the person who began Disney World and Disneyland. Those were exciting places she had heard of but had never visited. What was obvious to me was new, fascinating knowledge for her! She was putting the pieces together and learning.

Sometimes though, children (and adults) make wrong assumptions and need someone to explain. I remember a fourth grader who came to me very surprised. He said, “I didn’t know moles litter.” I was puzzled until he showed me his book that said the average size of a litter of moles was 2-5 pups. He was just learning English and knew that littering was throwing trash out of the car. He was trying to make sense of his book. I couldn’t help but picture a mole driving a red convertible down the road throwing pieces of trash out one by one. As I talked to him, I helped him understand that another definition of litter is a group of baby animals born to a mother animal at one time. Proverbs 23:12 says: “Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge.” He was trying hard to learn, but needed new knowledge to fully understand!

2 Timothy 2:15 reminds us to “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” We need to encourage our children and grandchildren to do their best each day they are in school. They need to be good readers and need to be able to express themselves by writing. They need to understand arithmetic, especially the ways we use numbers every day!

As parents and grandparents though, we need to monitor the truths they are learning that affect their worldview. Parents have many options for sending the children to school - public schools, private schools, church schools, online academies, homeschooling, and more. As a 30-year veteran of teaching in public schools, I have been blessed to teach in a rural/small town area where many of my fellow teachers were Christian and I never really had to question what my son and daughter learned. I often said that I could name the teachers up and down the halls of my school and tell you in what church each teacher was active. That was a blessing! I truly believe those teachers had as a goal, Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Every community is not blessed like I have been. We need to encourage parents as they seek the best education for their children. We need to encourage children and teachers to take Jesus with them as they leave for school each day. Joshua 1:9 says: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

We need to keep our children enrolled in Sunday School and other church activities that teach them the Bible truths they need to apply each day. We need to recognize that we as parents and grandparents have the primary responsibility to teach our children. Bible stories and Bible study at the proper level for each child needs to be part of our routines along with the reading, writing, and arithmetic.

A back-to-school prayer for both teachers and students can include: Asking God to help them walk with integrity (Proverbs 10:9), that they will trust in God in every situation (Psalm 56:3), and that God will help them grow as Jesus did this year (Luke 2:52).

My prayer is for a happy new school year to learners everywhere! All scriptures are from the English Standard Version (ESV).

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

ENJOY THE RIDE

Many today have lost that aspect of life. With so much going on in the world, how can we possibly be happy? We are daily given news of tragic and depressing events, locally and around the globe.

Only in the past hundred years have the masses been exposed to events around the world in real time. It has been to our detriment. What once were local issues and travisties, are now instantly viewed by all.

Time to do a reality check. We should not fret over what we cannot control. Pray and let it be. We have enough to deal with where we live. Love those around you and help those who need you. Our time is short, make a difference where you live and ...enjoy the ride.

Click on book photo to purchase on Amazon.

(I highly recommend this book! - Karen)

AFTER EARTH

So vast the universe, so finite our experience. Is there something beyond our sight? We yearn for more than what we are given, wanting to be remembered for more than what we have accumulated. Are we one among many or out of many only one.

All I know, all I have read, all I have experienced tells me there is more. Someone once said eternity has been placed within our hearts. It is a presence unseen and a reality longed for. To believe life beyond the grave is a hope that brings peace in a troubled world and comfort from its sorrows.

Hope is a gift to be treasured. May you hold close its promise and rest in its truth. For there is life after death, joy after sorrow and heaven after earth.

THE DOOR

In life we are confronted with many doors, some we open and some we walk by. At times we may even hear a faint knock as we pass. Doors can change our lives forever.

We remember how badly we were treated as we entered some, promising ourselves to never do that again. But deep down we still yearn for the one that would bring wholeness to our lives.

So we ask ourselves, is there another door? I read of One who says, “Behold I stand at the door and knock, because through Me all who enter in will be saved.” Expectantly we turn the knob, open and then pass into new life.

AS I WAIT

By Irene Surya

As I wait on you, Lord

Let me rest in your presence

Let me be nourished by your Word Let my roots dive deep into the truth.

As I wait through seasons of uncertainty

Let me remember, God is working One stitch at a time, Even when life has blindfolded me.

As I wait through seasons of silence

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.

Let me trust in the everlasting God, With peace and purpose in thoughts Expecting the best from His hands.

As I wait through seasons of drought

Let me hope in God without withering Nourishing myself in God’s love, To bear fruits in dry seasons.

As I wait through seasons of striving

Let me have the quiet resilience

To soar upwards with hidden strength, From the abundant grace of God.

As I wait on you, Lord

Let me not be discouraged

Let me not be exhausted

But let me draw more closer to you.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

Kris Green lives in Florida with his beautiful wife and two savage children. He’s been published over 80 times in the last few years by the wonderful people at Nifty Lit, The Haberdasher: Peddlers of Literary Art, In Parentheses Magazine, Route 7 Review, BarBar Magazine, and many more. He won the 2023 Barbe Best Short Story and Reader’s Choice Award for his short story, “Redemption”. Currently, he has regular

Seed

by Kris Green

I’m not good with plants But I found this seed, if you can help. There are some cracks, Exposure has caused it to suffer.

The soil doesn’t look good. Dry and inhospitable. Are you surrounding it with manure? Is that the right thing to do?

The plant looks sick. Ashen leaves with brittle branches. Do we need to resoil? Replant? Will fresh water be enough to save it?

Can you take this seed, this dream, in my heart –That time and heartache have beaten down, And make it something more?

Will you breathe new life into this and cause something to grow?

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.

The Day I Found My Idols

By Brianna Barrett

Friday night, I discovered an idol in my life. What I idolized shocked me. My week included an extensive trip to a top-tier medical center outside the state and a college visit with my soon-to-be senior. After a long drive, I was finally home and ready to relax with my heating pad. While waiting for my family, I checked social media.

I found my accounts were suspended. My head started reeling. What in the world was going on? Why? What am I going to do? How could this have happened? The thoughts raced.

Over the next twenty-four hours with no social media access, I learned a lot.

1. I was on social media too much.

2. I was on my phone too much in general and needed to be connecting with my family more.

3. I was replacing the time I should have been in the Word. I was constantly checking my socials, doom scrolling to see what others were doing, at times causing myself to feel bitterness, jealousy, and envy.

4. I depended on social media not only to keep me company but to market me. The idols I found were the platform that I was building, and the actual doom of being sucked into aimless scrolling. I was prioritizing my time and efforts to appear flawless.

Everything vanished in an instant, literally an instant. I’ve found that stripping away what was replacing my time with God has blessed me and my family. I don’t race to fulfill the requirements of an algorithm, just to be seen. God already sees me. I wasn’t missing out on the conversations that needed to happen. We’ve grown in our moments of no social media. I had a lot of stock, time, and myself in my socials to lose it in an instant - but I need Jesus more, and no one or thing can take that away from me.

I need Jesus to be my priority. I had allowed my writing, platform building, and algorithm boosting to take away from my time with God. Each morning, I rushed through my Bible reading, treating it as a task to complete. My time is no longer rushed. This morning, after prayer, I finally felt like I was where I needed to be with God.

He had stripped away what was taking away from being near to Him, worshipping Him.

I had a five-day, forced detox from social media. I am finding that I am less anxious, digging more into the Word, and focusing my efforts on my relationship with God and my people. So what started out as devastating has turned into something beautiful. Did I expect this? No, but I am actually glad it happened. My entire family found out we were prioritizing the wrong things.

While in my unrushed time with God, these verses were part of my study during the following week.

The prophet Isaiah is telling Israel about idols and how the one who made the idol was full of folly. The passage talks about human workers (a blacksmith, a carpenter, and a tree grower) and how they do all this work in their trade, creating this work of art, but it ends up being an idol. They realized the idol didn’t renew their strength (like the Lord does!). The passage continues, describing how they burned part of the idol for firewood to bake bread, but it still didn’t fulfill their desires.

Isaiah continues explaining, “The person who made the idol never stops to reflect, ‘Why, it’s just a block of wood! I burned half of it for heat and used it to bake my bread and roast my meat. How can the rest of it be a god? Should I bow down to worship a piece of wood?’ The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes. He trusts something that can’t help him at all. Yet he cannot bring himself to ask, ‘Is this idol that I’m holding in my hand a lie?’” (Isaiah 44:19-20 NLT).

Well, my toes were stepped on, I may not have carved this idol, but I created it. I spent hours and hours building a platform, while wholly missing the mark. I’ve since asked God to forgive me for housing this idol, I’ve put some good safeguards in the way and made some boundaries for myself with social media.

While I don’t want anyone banned from social media, reflect on whether it’s detracting from your priorities: God and family.

Try taking some downtime from it - like a weekend- see what you find through detoxing.

My idol may not have been a golden calf or a statue carved of wood, but my use of social media was holding me back from God and my people. At this time, I have had my accounts reinstated. Although I missed out on significant events during this week, prioritizing obedience to God was essential.

Lord, thank You for technology and the gifts it allows. Lord help us to use technology and social media responsibly. If something in my life is coming before you Lord, reveal that to me so I may change. I want you at the center of my life. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

CLICK ON BOOK PHOTO TO FIND THIS BOOK ON AMAZON.

The Beauty God Shares

by Karen Ruhl

Most of you know some of my work through this magazine. My love for photography started when I was a yioung girl with a cheap camera that my mom let me use. At the time, it was everything I needed. I not only took photos of flowers, trees, and nature, I also took family photos and loved to catch people unaware.

When I started working during high school, I saved up and got a better camera. My love for nature continued to grow, I loved taking pictures. Back then, way back then...it cost a lot of money to get them developed. So, we had to be a little careful about how many shots we took. I think most rolls let you take 36 pictures, and being careful, the roll could last for a month. THEN... awww...I hear the angels voices...digital cameras came out and there were some that were reasonable. I got a 35 mm with 3 lenses for Christmas. Now the world had changed, all I needed was a small disc to put my photos on. The world was not mine!

My friend Sonia is a master photographer. I have featured her in the past, and you can bet she will be in future issues too. Scroll thru the magazine and enjoy her photos. A few of mine are below, check out my website and browse - it is always fun to look at photos!

God Bless You All, Karen https://karen-ruhl.pixels.com/

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

Photo by Sonia Ousa

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.

FORGIVENESS

By Shara Bueler-Repka

I angled my plate just in time to keep projectile mashed potatoes from plastering my shirt. Stunned, I looked up as the server turned tail and stormed toward the kitchen.

Seriously? What is going on here?

Our friends who owned this Bible camp had invited us here for some R&R from the road. “Come enjoy our camp as our guests,” they offered. Then added, “there are a lot of activities with the kids, so if the Lord leads you to participate in any of the events, you’re welcome to join in.

Sounded good to us!

We rolled onto the grounds with great anticipation and excitement. Nestled in the green rolling hills of southeastern Wyoming, the camp was like stepping back to the 1800s: Conestoga Wagons dotted the “parade grounds”; Rustic, false-front buildings and a bright red train caboose served as dorms; A livery stable stored the horse and barn gear; An authentic stone stagecoach stop still graced the old stage route behind the log mess hall; And a replica of a fort completed the feel of the Old West.

It was awesome!

After setting up camp and caring for our horses, we walked to the mess hall for dinner. The paid staff and volunteers all happily greeted us, and we quickly fit in. However, we were careful not to get in their way as they went about their duties.

We settled into the ebb and flow of the hustle and bustle of camp life. We watched for opportunities to get better acquainted with the kids and all the staffers and enjoyed exploring the vast acreage on horseback and on foot.

But, after about a week, the friendly atmosphere shifted. Chilly attitudes radiated from the staff. Some of their actions were downright rude.

How could we possibly have ticked them off?

The mashed potato episode plucked the last straw. “Do you have any idea what’s going on?” we asked our friends. “Well, the cook’s wife just complained that you’re lazy and don’t work,” they said. (Apparently, the rest of the staff agreed).

WHAT? Ummm, we were invited here as GUESTS. That misunderstanding almost cost me a good shirt from airborne mashed potatoes!

Our friends cleared up the confusion of our existence with the cook’s wife, and the truth trickled down through the staff. The icy attitudes melted, and the crew welcomed us again. We also realized that it was OK to jump in and assist with camp duties and not worry about getting in the way.

Helping us shake off the offenses, the Holy Spirit showed us the trail through the tension. Among other things, we helped on the trail rides, sang at the campfires and Bible studies, drove the speed boat that whirled the kids around the local lake on water toys, and joined the team that cleaned up the fort.

However, one more offense reared up to be conquered. One particular staff member appeared to be cranky with everybody.

“Man, that guy’s a real piece of work,” Bruce and I complained as we walked to our trailer one evening. For a short time, we joined everyone else in the chorus of less than stellar (albeit funny) descriptive names for this sassy individual. Of course, it didn’t take long for the Holy Spirit to step in, convicting us to cease and desist.

He encouraged us to help ease this person’s workload by doing the chores he hated (full disclosure: we didn’t like the chores either, but we did them anyway-lol). And, when he roughly jested, we responded—but with kind humor.

Slowly, his sturdy walls of defense crumbled, and we got to know the real man behind the mask. He also got to know us as he observed our daily interactions.

The day before we left, he sought us out, and we offered encouragement to this good man in a dark time in his life. We praised God that we didn’t miss this amazing opportunity, possible only through Him.

As I think about the word forgiveness, reconciliation comes to mind. The quicker we can forgive, the faster reconciliation can bring relationships back into balance. Bitterness never has a chance to take root. Hebrews 12:15.

Even if we agree to disagree on a subject, “keeping the peace” with that person keeps lines of communication and hearts open. I believe that’s why the Lord says that he gives His followers the “ministry of reconciliation”.

It’s hard when you’re misunderstood, mistreated, or you’re faced with your own shortcomings and need to correct course. Bruce and I could have easily said, “we don’t have to put up with this”, loaded up our Boys and headed out. But if we had, we would have missed all the joy and fun of experiencing those restored relationships.

Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation—2 Corinthians 5:18-19.

Nicole is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 14 years of experience in community mental health. She is the author of Remade: Living Free a book written for women in recovery from substance abuse and unhealthy relationships.

Nicole also maintains a blog at nicolebyrum.com as well as a podcast, 5 Minute Word. Both focus on topics related to faith and relationships. She lives in Northwest Ohio with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, running, or cooking.

A Monthly Highlight: Nicole Byrum

I wanted to take this time to highlight one of my clients, but more than that, we have become good friends. Nicole is a licensed marriage family therapist, is married to a school teacher, and has two awesome kids. Both of the kids are very involved in sports.

I have had the great pleasure of publishing many of her books. She is a gifted writer, and I recommend her books.

Nicole, I look forward to working on the next series. Thank you - you are truly a blessing to me.

Click here to look at Nicole’s books.

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

Richard D. Waters lives in Hudson, North Caroline. He is a Youth Pastor at Calvary Advent Christian Church. He loves working with children and youth. His heart is to teach them about Jesus, and how Jesus loves them. He loves his family and making memories with them. One of the things he loves the most is making people laugh and smile. He is the king of Dad Jokes.

My first children’s book will be published this month, watch for “Corn Dog Capers.”

Sometimes God Moves Not in a Way We Think He is Going To

by Richard D. Waters

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 I didn’t tell this to a young adult, but to a group of middle school and high school students. I do think this is one where my faith was tested the most.

I was standing in front of my youth group and teaching about how that following God doesn’t always mean things are going to go smoothly. Sometimes, life is hard. I gave many examples from scripture, and we had a great time of dialogue. Talking back and forth about hard time and good times. I told them I had this story about a time things hit me really hard. So, I went on to tell them this story.

“Many years ago, I was the bass player for a band named, Voice. We did a lot of worship songs, but we manly wrote and played our own stuff. Our manager, who was our drummer’s dad and my mentor, had scheduled 2 concerts in one day. One in the early afternoon in Gastonia and one at 7 p.m. at a boys’ prison in Spruce Pines. So, we met early that more to run over our set and to pack up and head to Gastonia. During this time, my mother was in the hospital with cancer. She made me promise her, that no matter what, I keep on doing ministry.

So, we were traveling down to Gastonia, and I was lying in the back thinking and praying. I felt a peace of God move over my heart. It felt like God was saying to me, ‘Everything is going to be ok.’

I got really excited thinking God is going to heal my mother. We get to Gastonia, and it was once of the best concerts we ever did. People were dancing and praising God. It was amazing. I was so full of joy and hope. After we were done, we had to pack up and head to Spruce Pines. Again, I was lying down in the back praying and this time going over my notes because I was speaking at Spruce Pines after we play. All of the sudden I felt this weight hit me as God began speaking to me about my mother. It was like Him saying, ‘Your mom’s time is almost up, but you’re going to be ok. I am still here.’

I held to those words as we played, and I began to speak. It took everything in me to present the Word of God that night. I spoke on the second coming of Christ and how it is important to be ready at all times. I spoke for about 30 minutes. I gave the alter call as our lead sing and back up sing got up to play and sing a soft worship song. As they sang, I kept telling these young men that today is the day of Salvation. Then one by one, some of these boys began coming to the front and giving their lives to Jesus. I believe there were around 10 of them. I cried like a baby during this time as I was praying over these young men.”

I told my youth group that if I had stayed with my head hung down and not done what God had told me to do, and what I promised my mother. I would have not been able to lead those young men to Jesus. Living for Him is a lot about trusting He knows what’s best for us even though we can’t see it. We closed our youth service in prayer.

A Note From Karen

I recently started coaching Richard. As we work together, I will give prompts to keep their minds busy and sometimes have them write about a subject they would never think about writing about. In August, I sent Richard a Christian prompt. He not only fulfilled the practice writing activity, he submitted a story that I wanted to print in this issue. I am truly thankful for each of the people I coach. I have already published one children’s book for him, with another one coming very soon.

Thank you, Richard. You have a God given talent. It is my pleasure to help you as you grow and publish many books! Click on the book to purchase Richard’s first published book!

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.

SECOND CHANCES

By Linda Castro

“Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, ‘Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you. “

(Jonah 3:1-2)

“I gave you a chance to redeem yourself and you didn’t even try!” the young lady screamed at her brother in the middle of their argument. “You just need to leave!” she shouted.

Family disagreements can be the hardest to rectify! Especially when anger and hurt feelings are involved.

Has this ever happened to you? I think at times, it has happened to all of us. Thank God for second chances!

The story of Jonah’s second chance is so interesting! God told him to go to Nineva but he said “No.” So, he gets on a ship heading in the opposite direction and tried to run from God.

However. Once he is on that ship, going where he decided to go instead of where God told him to go, a storm came up. A bad one. The people on the ship started throwing their cargo into the sea to lighten the load to keep from sinking but Jonah knew he was the cause of it.

He finally admitted it and told them to throw him into the sea. They didn’t want to do it but they finally did and then the sea was calm.

As Jonah went into the sea, a “great fish” sent by the Lord suddenly appeared and swallowed Jonah, thus preserving his life (see Jonah 1:17). God’s mercy! For three days and three nights Jonah was in the belly of the fish. Can you imagine?

For three days and three nights Jonah was in the belly of the fish. Can you imagine?

Apparently, Jonah had time to reflect on his disobedience, humble himself and acknowledge he had sinned against God. Through God’s mercy, Jonah did not die because God had an assignment for him to complete. Jonah prayed to God and agreed to go to Nineva! Therefore, “the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land” (Jonah 2:10).

Jonah was prepared to watch the destruction of Nineva, one of Israel’s enemies, but God had other plans for it. The people in Nineva repented and turned to God which Jonah was not expecting! So, Nineva also received a second chance from God!

Have you ever been in a family argument or even a strong difference of opinion at your job? Have you ever said too much and then lost the opportunity to take it back before it really hurt someone? “Do you think you’ve blown it? God sees what we really are when we mess up and God gives second chances. God gave Jonah a second chance. God gave the people of Nineveh a second chance. It is a lesson of love from a heavenly Father who specializes in second chances. Have you blown it? Have you disappointed someone close to you? Acknowledge your actions. God will restore. God will give grace. Ask God.”God is still good! He will help you!

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3-22-23)

“God’s mercies are new every day. This verse from Lamentations beautifully captures the essence of God’s willingness to give us second chances.”

Blooming Through Adversity

Melissa Gween Meek makes North Canton, Ohio her homebase, is a searching Christian, using the Word and writing devotions and personal essays to deepen her faith. Through her life experiences of losing a spouse at the age of 47 and experiencing health struggles, she aspires to help others through her love for putting words of hope on paper. You can find her devotions on Christian Devotions Ministry at https://christiandevotions. us/viewauthor/3668 and Faith at Every Corner at https://www. faithoneverycorner.com/.

Melissa Gween Meek

The late summer sun warmed my shoulders as I sat by the pond at the park, as I settled onto a bench watching the fountains dance and the ducks skim across the water. From my bench, I had a full view of many decked out in their hiking gear heading out on the trail I used to walk for hours, without a second thought. Loss comes in many forms and today I was grieving the simple joy of moving freely.

As a soft breeze stirred the willow branches I whispered a prayer, “God, help me find new ways to embrace the life I could still live.” Being a nature lover, I couldn’t imagine life without the joy of color from flowers within my view at home, so I improvised. It wasn’t easy having a deck with two levels, still I made it work. I created a portable nature garden scattering brightly colored pots offering me easier access to watering and pruning, using the steps and railings for support. Filling them with an array of God’s eye candy and just being outside smelling the scents warming in the sun gave me fresh hope.

Autoimmune diseases are not necessarily life threatening but can be minimizing. The blessings of family, friends and church family embrace me. Finding I need to depend more on others can let them know they are valued and needed, and I don’t really have to have everything under control.

My thought, “We are all in this life together, right?”

With fatigue and achiness brings a more sedentary lifestyle. Feeling the grips of frustration setting in, I prayed for some good ways to use this situation. Being an avid journal writer, I would write down questions I had, in the stillness throughout my day.

“Was I talking to God on paper?”

I found how healing it became for me, so I felt it could be for others. As I searched for answers in the Word, I came to realize what I was learning could be helpful to others as they probably have similar concerns. My journal writing opened the door to writing devotions, these small writings started to get published as they shared healing with God’s comfort and peace.

We can surrender into our adversity or reach for sustenance. For me, it gave me the time I needed to be quieter and listen to God’s discernment. Mornings of quiet became time with devotions. Bible study in a small group with other women was a great way to sow seeds of fortitude.

John 15:1-2 “I am the vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”

There’s a difference between cutting off versus pruning. In my flowerpots growth is egged on with pruning. But unhealthy or dead stems need to be cut off, they are worthless. I needed to snip off the self-pity growing in my heart, like deadheaded my flowers.

Sprouting healthier growth for myself came leisurely. First my doctor suggested physical therapy which could help me gain back muscle tone and strength. With that followed the desire to eat to nourish my body, not to comfort my emotions.

“Why hadn’t I done this sooner”?

I did get back on that path again and within a year I accomplished a two lap walk for the first time ever!

God answered my early prayer and gave me the means to bloom even through my adversity, with His strength. He gave me a vision of hope to thrive in any conditions. As I read His Word and use it for “research” I am learning ways to feel solace more and more. I see how my healing is not just for myself; God desires me to pass on this hope. So, I continue to write devotions, give glory to God and embrace this life He has given me.

Confessions of a Door Greeter

Kris Green

“What are you doing?”

I’m sitting in a comfortable chair with my legs crossed, nose deep in a book. I startle, straightening my back before standing up, not having heard him approach.

“I’m watching the door. When people come to the Hope Center, I’m helping those registered for childcare find it. No one else is supposed to show up for twenty more minutes.”

“I just saw a couple lost down there a few minutes ago.”

I don’t say anything. I recognize the Pastor from the videos of the beginning of the church. The couple had been insistent that they didn’t need help. I should have just walked them.

The pastor calls me by the wrong name, only glancing briefly at my name tag. He doesn’t introduce himself. I can’t remember his name. He relegates my volunteering to it would be better if there were a sign. He doesn’t come out and say my presence is irrelevant. The message is received.

I can’t get back to my book after he leaves, bothered by the whole thing.

A few months ago, I spoke with some leaders about doing more. I have ideas for different things to teach in a few classes. They don’t know me even though my family and I have been attending for years, so I start from the bottom – door greeter.

Tonight was different. Last few times, after greeting, I’d sit in the back of the class and listen to lectures on the Holy Spirit and Prayer. There’s no class today. People, who are hurting, come here hoping for help and counseling.

It’s awkward. We both know why they’re there. I’m trying to be respectful and distant.

After the last class, the word audacious bounced around in my brain. Later that night, I drove from Tampa to outside Jacksonville to see some snow. I haven’t seen snow in over 30 years. Florida hasn’t seen snow in decades.

The topic was audacious prayer, I went in a little different direction. Not that my prayers didn’t have some audacity as I stood in a snow-covered park.

It’s 57° out, and now self-conscious, I stand outside, Not having the sense to bring a jacket, I’m shivering. There’s nobody else that is supposed to show up. What am I doing anymore?

Should these little interactions send me spiraling into existential angst? Is this healthy? Is it normal? Maybe I don’t belong helping people. The pastor didn’t do anything wrong. He was just trying to help. Still, I can’t help but think I’m not suited to serve and help people.

Book Suggestions

I am so proud of both of these writers. Watch for more books soon!

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

I encourage you to click on Sonia’s website for beautiful photos.

Website: soniasousa.com

Instagram: @soniasousaphotography

PUCKER PASS

By Shara Bueler-Repka

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths”—Proverbs 3:5-6.

It was a happy trail. The views were spectacular as the Big Horn Mountains rose from the pristine pines and green meadows. Patches of snow dotted the crevices at the higher elevations. White puffy clouds drifted across the pastel blue sky.

We moseyed down the well-worn path—six riders enjoying God’s incredible creation. No worries on this path-unknown, as the GPS coordinates showed a direct route to Grace Lake.

We picked our way down a technical slope, but all rode with ease to the lakeshore. Rather than riding back on the same trail or ambling around what looked to be a longer route, we chose the shortcut on the map. (This “shortcut”, however, led us on a 7-hour, 16-mile (total) loop, meandering through canyons and over mountains. As the afternoon turned into early evening, we envisioned an overnight stay at 9000+ elevation!)

Our route got rather interesting as we rounded a corner around a boulder. The trail headed up the side of a mountain, with about a hundred-foot steep descent to the Paint Rock River. We figured there’d be a quick end to this precarious path, but it kept going…and going…and continued to climb. Blind corners sparked anxious imaginations of shale slides, other riders, hikers, or worse, a fallen log, making it impassable.

We all had the “willies” in varying degrees. However, there was nothin’ for it but to keep riding as there was no way to turn around.

As the trail severely narrowed, the horse I rode got a little jiggy. Her back hoof slipped off the soft edge, sending me into serious “help me, Jesus” prayers, as I tried to ignore the river rapids roaring below. You can bet I had both hands on the reins and ditched any thoughts of snapping a photo. (Pictures rarely do a pucker-trail justice, anyway.)

(Riders “in the know” told us later, a bit wide-eyed, that this part of the trail was named Pucker Pass. And, to our astonishment, this trail was a “one way”, and we had been traveling the opposite direction!)

Finally, the personality of the terrain changed to better footing and gentler slopes. We all breathed a sigh of relief as we sat on our horses in a small clearing at the bottom.

As I reflect, I figure the worst parts of the trail were the “what ifs”. “What if” the aforementioned insurmountable obstacles blocked our way? “What if” the impending storm hit while we traversed the more “pucker” parts? “What if” one of our horses spooked, or? and down we’d tumble over the rock-strewn mountain into the whitewater of the River? “What if”…

We made it safely back to camp, but we all wished we had a guide who knew the trails.

Kinda like life. Life is moving along with all its beauty and comfort. You’re confident of where you’re going, and then “bam”! You find yourself on an unexpected difficult ‘trail’ full of “what ifs”: “What if“ I can’t hack it? “What if” an obstacle suddenly appears and I can’t overcome it? “What if” I slip and fall hopelessly into an abyss? “What if” …

In these confusing times, wouldn’t it be nice if there were someone who could answer the questions: “How do we discern the truth?” “What is the right ‘trail’ to take?” “Does anyone have a clue where they’re going and can guide us through the rocky, obscure paths?”

Truth is, we do. God’s Holy Spirit is the ultimate Guide with the GPS that never loses signal. He knows the country and its entire map and will carefully guide us through. He leads us down trails that won’t harm us, but strengthen our trust. And the views? Amazing!

Of course, it’s our choice. We can choose to go it alone, trying to figure everything out for ourselves, living in fear of the “what ifs”. Or, we can choose to follow the Guide Who is more than willing to “ride” with us.

I don’t know about you, but I wallowed in the fear of the “what ifs” for way too long. I’ve learned that His grace is sufficient to cover anything I face. 2 Timothy 1:7 encourages: “God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind”.

Even though there are always tough trails to traverse, I can appreciate the beauty of the “trail” around me because I can trust Him to guide me through the rocky paths and bring me safely into “camp”. (Philippians 4:4-7)

“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come”–John 16:13

PUCKER PASS

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:

• Coaching and Mentoring

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• The Faith On Every Corner Publishing Imprint

• Much more…

For a free consultation and to find out how we can best be of service to you, please contact us at: team@faithoneverycorner. com

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