Fruitful vine & Olive shoots

  The other day my son Judah asked me if he could wash our minivan. When he asked me I felt a mix of emotions- I wanted to say yes, but I also wanted to say no. I went to wash a few dishes while he waited for my answer. Me being me, I began weighing the pros and cons. As a perfectionist I thought to say no. Questions began popping into my head. Would he wash it well? What if he leaves streak marks? Etc. Honestly, it didn't matter if my son didn't wash the car well. He is only seven and he's never washed a car before, but he's constantly learning. But there I was presented with an opportunity of whether or not keep his flame burning or to blow it out, and keeping things in perspective; a car is just a car, but our relationship with our children is transcendent and MUCH MORE meaningful than a car or anything for that matter. Personally I knew I would do him a disservice if I said no. How else are our children to grow and become responsible adults if we parents don...

  The Day after Resurrection Day   As an Evangelical Christian I grew up celebrating Easter—better known as Holy Week in my culture. Every day of the Holy Week was so special to me because each day had a different meaning. Fast forward to my adult life I still celebrate Easter and commemorate Jesus, His sacrifice at the cross, and His resurrection. Our savior was obedient to the Father, even to the point of death. During Holy week I think about the love of Jesus—and His love takes on a new meaning because by this love I was saved and there’s nothing else I can do to save myself, because the price has already been paid. All I have to do is accept Jesus, take up my cross and follow him daily. During Easter I think about how much Jesus loves me. He loves me enough to lay down his life out of His own accord. He endured so much suffering and pain and paid the ultimate price for my salvation! There’s a cost to my salvation, Jesus’ sacrifice was not in vain and His blood shed...