Nicaragua

I just returned from my first mission trip.  My family and I went to Masatepe, Nicaragua.  Our church and a few other American churches are helping to plant a church there.  This was my first visit to a third world country.  Here are few of my observations.

A very difficult year

This year has been very difficult.  It has been a very expensive year, both financially and personally.  My father, grandfather, and grandmother all died earlier this year.  I had to replace our furnace (only 6 years old).  My dog, Hope, developed seizures, hypothyroidism, and pancreatitis (all this year).  She spent 3 days in the ICU ($2000).  On December 1st I totaled my car.  With all this happening in one year I could wonder why I’m getting beat up.  What have I done wrong?

Dad

 

The loss of my Dad earlier this year has really got me to thinking.

Saving Money

There are only 3 things you can do with money.  You can spend it, give it, and save it.  This post will focus on saving.  Saving seems to be a lost art in America.

Debt can make you sick!

A friend of mine, Ken Leamer, forwarded me a very interesting article.  It is based on an AP-AOL poll.  Basically they give stats that show that the stress of being in debt leads to a higher risk of health problems.

Pharisees, Sadducees, and the Sanhedrin

We were discussing these three in my men’s bible study this morning and found that none of us really understood the differences between these 1^st century Jews. We knew of them, but were unable to really tell what the differences were. This article is based on my research on the subject. I hope it brings some clarity.

A Most Difficult Week

What an awful week I have just had. Actually the whole year hasn’t been great. Let me fill you in on the events that have transpired.

Dad and hospice

It looks like my Superman is about to experience super peace. Dad’s lung cancer has defied all treatment and he has now entered hospice care. He is at home with Mom. He is pleasantly confused and very weak, but not in any pain.

Dad and I were talking a few weeks ago and he told me a great story.

More on Contentment

Here is the next installment in my trying to understand Biblical contentment.  Get ready for  a Greek and Hebrew lesson.

Grandpa Roy

I will always remember my grandpa fondly. My earliest memories are him tickling me unmercifully.