Friday Writings
Tim
Bacchus
27 June 2025
Righteous
indignation is a principled response to injustice, grounded not in personal
offense or uncontrolled emotion, but in a deep sense of moral clarity. Unlike
anger, which can be impulsive and self-centered, righteous indignation arises
when one witnesses harm, dishonesty, or oppression and feels compelled to speak
or act out of ethical conviction. It is measured and purposeful, often
accompanied by a call for accountability and change. This form of moral outrage
is not about lashing out but about standing up—firmly and
compassionately—for what is right, especially on behalf of those who cannot
stand for themselves. Remember Righteous Indignation, not Anger. Please be Safe,
Happy and have Peace.
17 June 2025
It’s
easy for many of us to see a challenge and declare, “I’ve got this!” At a
certain level, this is necessary and even admirable—we need to feel capable
and confident. But when taken too far, the attitude of “I’ve got this”
ultimately means choosing to go it alone. And when we go it alone, we come to
realize the limits of our abilities. We all have some things in our lives that
come easily and others that don’t. The trick is recognizing that for those
things that are new, scary, foreign, or just plain difficult, we don’t have to
go it alone. There are people around us who can help us—people who’ve been
where we are, who know where we’re going, and who can lend us a helping hand.
In fact, many of the greatest human achievements were only made possible by the
collective efforts of many people working together on a shared goal. Projects
like the pyramids of Giza, The Panama Canal, and the Apollo space program each
required thousands of individuals working together, and the results were
magnificent. There is power in the humble recognition that we don’t know
everything and can’t do everything. By acknowledging our need for help, we
open ourselves to learning from others’ experiences and can benefit from their
wisdom. When we go it alone, we may be like the bird who kept flying into the
wind without progressing. Alternatively, when we accept help from others, their
assistance can be like an updraft of the wind, lifting us higher and allowing us
to soar. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
30 May 25
We
all carry burdens in this world. For some, their suffering is more visible,
physically apparent on the outside. For others, their suffering is less visible,
carried on the inside. Regardless, the sufferings we each endure are real. The
good news is that a host of human beings fill this planet, and each has power to
lift another’s burden — a smile to a stranger, a listening ear, a decision
not to judge, an unexpected compliment. Simple acts of compassion become
powerful expressions of God’s love to those in need. In a way, our hands
become His hands, benefiting all within our reach. As we strive to serve others,
even in our own moments of need, we find that we are developing a higher and
holier character — a Christlike character that will increasingly sustain us in
our own challenges. He who suffered the most, Jesus Christ, always reached
outward, relieving the suffering of those around Him. His perfect character
enables His perfect love to extend to each of us always. May we commit to
reaching outward to others, even though our natural tendency may be to turn
inward. Jesus Himself promised: “Give, and it shall be given unto you. … For
with the same measure that ye mete … it shall be measured to you again”
(Luke 6:38). Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
28 May 2025
Today
we honor those who have gone before us—especially those who have given their
lives in the service of our country. We also honor all those whose lives have
touched our hearts for good. Truly, the positive impact that one person can make
on the life of another can be monumental. Monuments and headstones marking a
gravesite often have an engraved epitaph, forever stating a few words in memory
of the deceased. Mark Twain once quoted Adam at Eve’s grave, stating what
might have been her epitaph. He said, “Wheresoever she was, there was Eden.”
Of course this was fiction, but the words were tender and insightful,
nonetheless. Looking ahead, what might our own epitaph read? Will it comment on
our kind nature, our love for others, or our desire to be a peacemaker? Will it
tell of our courage to stand strong when times are hard, or of our patience
enduring a lengthy trial? Think of the people you most admire. Most likely it
was not their accomplishments that touched your life but their acts of kindness,
not their beauty but their big hearts, not their successes but their support.
The same is true for all of us. What will be cherished is the difference we’ve
made in others’ lives. What will be valued is the love and service we’ve
offered. Remember, ‘A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved
you, and were helped by you, will remember you when forget-me-nots are
withered.’” In a way, we each are writing our own epitaphs today. Our
remembered acts may include a few things we did in life, but our lives will in
large part be remembered for how we did those things. What we do matters, but
how we do it matters even more. And so, we look to the past in honor of those
who have taught us much through their service, sacrifice, and good acts. And at
the same time, we look to the future, knowing our epitaphs are being written not
only by what we are doing but by how we are doing those things today. Please be
Safe, Happy and have Peace.
9 May 2025
The
Bible teaches that charity — the purest and highest form of love — is
patient and kind. It does not envy, boast or act proudly. Charity does not
dishonor others, is not self-seeking and is not easily angered. Charity bears
all things, believes all things, hopes all things and endures all things (see 1
Corinthians 13:4-7). Charity is strong. Some unwisely may say that showing love
is a weakness. Yet real love — charity — has real power — power that can
change not only a heart but even the world. Love shown to others promotes
communication, reduces contention and yields understanding. Whether shown by a
simple act or through valiant and sustained service over many years, love’s
true power is always humble, and its strength brings about miracles. Jochebed,
the mother of Moses, offered courageous and selfless love for her baby son,
putting him in a basket and, with unwavering faith, placing that basket by the
reeds in a river to save his life. Jochebed’s love and courage ensured that
Moses, many years later, would be where he needed to be so he could help to
deliver the children of Israel (see Exodus 2:1-4; 6:20). The widow of Zarephath
is another person who showed true love when the prophet Elijah, during a famine,
desired food and water. The widow humbly offered the last of her crumbs, her
selfless love resulting in a miracle. Her jar of flour and jug of oil would
never run dry, sustaining her throughout the remainder of the famine (see 1
Kings 17:8-16). God is a God of love (see 1 John 4:8), and we can feel the power
of His love as we exercise faith and trust in Him (see Proverbs 3:5-6). Like the
loving acts of these faithful women, our humble acts of love can allow for us to
seeGod’s hand in our lives, even if doing so takes time and looks different
from what we ever would have imagined. Yes, there is power in love — it is
God’s power. Power that can change our lives, power that can change the world.
Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
2 May 2025
Physical
strength is often judged by outward appearances. But there is another kind of
strength — an inner strength — that is buried deep beneath the flesh, hidden
from sight. This inner strength of the soul is harder to measure, but it’s
this strength that enables us to pass through the storms of life and emerge
happier, wiser and brighter. Of course, lifting weights without proper nutrition
yields little growth. Similarly, experiencing life’s trials without the proper
spiritual nourishment also yields little improvement. Like our physical bodies,
our souls need consistent nourishment. Prayer, service and keeping God’s
commandments all combine to build inner strength of the soul. We are not a body
with a soul; rather, we are a soul with a body As a result, developing
inner strength of the soul is of paramount importance. Often, unseen inner
strength is manifested outwardly. It’s in life’s challenges — the weight,
the strain and the struggle — that true inner strength is forged. May we
discover that the quiet work of building inner strength has the power to
transform us and to lift and inspire those around us. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
25 April 2025
Frequently
we hear it said that times have changed. Young people say it. Others do also. In
some ways it is true. But it is a statement that can be seriously misleading.
Many things have changed-some for the better, others for the worse. . Almost
every outward aspect of life has changed, and anyone who attempts to do business
as it was once done would likely not long be in business. The pace of life has
changed. We live in a faster and different world, both a worse and a better
world, and in some ways, we have to adjust to the times and be flexible enough
to face the facts. The pace has changed-yes. But not the purpose or the
principles. Let no one be deceived about flexibility as to fundamental
principles. We cannot afford to be flexible in matters of honesty. We cannot
afford to be flexible in matters of virtue, old-fashioned as the word may seem.
Flexibility must not mean setting aside considerate manners, or sound morals, or
honorable obligations-or setting aside the commandments or tampering with the
basic laws of life. We must discriminate as to changes and know where it is safe
to be flexible and where it is imperative to be firmly fixed. To change the
superstructure-the facing and the fashions-is one thing, but to tamper with the
foundations is another. The pace has changed, but the purpose and the principles
have not. The age-old, God-given rules of honesty, morality,
responsibility-`commandments' if that's what we want to call them-and even the
inner voice called conscience are still what they always were, no matter how
times have changed, no matter how modern we feel, no matter how flexible other
things may be. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
18 April 2025
After
the death of Jesus Christ, one of His disciples, a man named Joseph of Arimathea,
asked for permission to take the body of Jesus. With help from other disciples,
Joseph tenderly, lovingly wrapped the Savior’s body in a clean linen cloth,
laid the Lord in a tomb, and rolled a great stone in front of the opening. The
scriptures say Joseph “was a good man” who “waited for the kingdom of
God” (Luke 23:50–51). He believed that Jesus was the one who would bring
God’s kingdom to earth. And yet, throughout His life, Jesus was mistreated and
mocked, “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3). And
then as the darkness of night descended on Jerusalem, His body lay lifeless
behind a heavy stone. It must have felt so final. But of course, it wasn’t
final. The promise of Easter is that Jesus Christ has overcome all obstacles,
all heartache and sorrow. Life continues after death, darkness will give way to
light, and all that is wrong can be made right. The next day, “very early in
the morning, … at the rising of the sun” (Mark 16:2), Mary Magdalene and two
other women came to the tomb. There they found, to their astonishment, that the
stone had been removed, the tomb was empty, and two angels reassured them with
the good news that has echoed through the ages: “Why seek ye the living among
the dead? He is not here but is risen” (Luke 24:5–6). Jesus Christ has many
titles, and each one teaches us something important about Him. He is known as
the Redeemer, the Prince of Peace, the King of kings, the Light of the World.
But today, we honor the title He taught to His friend Martha: “I am the
resurrection, and the life” (John 11:25). He is risen. And because He is
risen, all humankind will be resurrected and live again, including you and me.
Death is not the end; no tragedy is final. The great, heavy stones that block
our way can all be removed. Everything that seems so unfair about life can be
put right. The wounded will be healed, the heartbroken will be comforted, and
all that is lost will be restored. All because He is risen. Please be Safe,
Happy and have Peace
11 April 2025
“Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two [brothers], … Peter, and Andrew … , casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. “And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. “And going on from thence, he saw other two [brothers], James … , and John … , in a ship … , mending their nets; and he called them. “And they immediately left the ship and … followed him” (Matthew 4:18-22). In this way, Jesus called His first disciples, His apostles, who would labor with Him and testify of Him for the rest of their lives. They didn’t postpone or procrastinate. They dropped their nets, left their ships, and followed the Lord, in the words of the scriptures, “straightway,” “immediately.” Such a simple description could give the impression that the choice to leave everything and follow Jesus was also simple. But surely it wasn’t. We can imagine that Peter, Andrew, James and John were relatively comfortable catching fish. They had probably been doing it for a while, and it was providing a living for their families. Now they were to leave all of that and be “fishers of men”? What did that mean? They likely felt unprepared and inadequate. And yet, when the call came, they answered with willing hearts, without looking back. Acting with faith despite the uncertainty ahead, they followed Jesus Christ through difficulty and trial, hardship and heartache, until the end of His mortal life. Then, after His Resurrection, they continued to follow Him, spreading His gospel message in faithfulness and devotion. In a similar way, Jesus also calls you and me to follow Him. He calls us to set aside self-centered pursuits. He calls us to keep His commandments. He calls us to love and serve our neighbor. He calls us to strive to be more like Him. And He calls us to extend the same invitation to others. It will probably require leaving our nets — those entangling things that hold us back, that keep us from the Lord and His higher, holier ways. We may feel unprepared and inadequate. That’s where the Savior’s mercy and grace come in. With gentleness and love, He strengthens us. He supports us as we turn to Him, yield our hearts to Him and straightway, immediately follow Him. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
4 April 2025
Jesus,
walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two [brothers], … Peter, and Andrew … ,
casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. “And he saith unto them,
Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. “And they straightway left
their nets, and followed him. “And going on from thence, he saw other two
[brothers], James … , and John … , in a ship … , mending their nets; and
he called them. “And they immediately left the ship and … followed him”
(Matthew 4:18–22).
In
this way, Jesus called His first disciples, His Apostles, who would labor with
Him and testify of Him for the rest of their lives. They didn’t postpone or
procrastinate. They dropped their nets, left their ships, and followed the Lord,
in the words of the scriptures, “straightway,” “immediately.” Such a
simple description could give the impression that the choice to leave everything
and follow Jesus was also simple. But surely it wasn’t. We can imagine that
Peter, Andrew, James, and John were relatively comfortable catching fish. They
had probably been doing it for a while, and it was providing a living for their
families. Now they were to leave all of that and be “fishers of men”? What
did that mean? They likely felt unprepared and inadequate. And yet, when the
call came, they answered with willing hearts, without looking back. Acting with
faith despite the uncertainty ahead, they followed Jesus Christ through
difficulty and trial, hardship and heartache, until the end of His mortal life.
Then, after His Resurrection, they continued to follow Him, spreading His gospel
message in faithfulness and devotion. In a similar way, Jesus also calls you and
me to follow Him. He calls us to set aside self-centered pursuits. He calls us
to keep His commandments. He calls us to love and serve our neighbor. He calls
us to strive to be more like Him. And He calls us to extend the same invitation
to others. It will probably require leaving our nets—those entangling things
that hold us back, that keep us from the Lord and His higher, holier ways. We
may feel unprepared and inadequate. That’s where the Savior’s mercy and
grace come in. With gentleness and love, He strengthens us. He supports us as we
turn to Him, yield our hearts to Him, and straightway, immediately follow Him.
Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
28 March 2025
“Kindness
is a lovely force,” said author Anne O. Leavitt, “but it can only be powered
by people. For all our magical gadgets, no appliance, instrument, apparatus or
device [can] extend kindness to another human being. That power is vested only
in people” Kindness is a force propelled by people, and like waves in the
ocean, acts of kindness are carried far beyond where the eye can see. Kindness
… opens doors and fashions friends. It softens hearts and molds relationships
that can last lifetimes. Because of one person’s kindness, generations
can benefit. Please be Safe, Happy, and have Peace.
24 March 2025
The book of Hebrews teaches that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). “In other words, faith is the assurance of the existence of a truth even though it is not evident or cannot be proved” This is how many people can say, “I know that God lives and that He knows me.” Our knowledge comes from knowing what we feel in our hearts, the spiritual confirmation of truth that we have previously received and from seeing the results, the fruits of our faith. In this way, we can know God is real, even without seeing Him. Choosing first to believe enables us to feel within our hearts divine truths that our eyes cannot see — spiritual stars, if you will, that have always been there but were previously unseen. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
28
February 2025
Learning by doing means we take an active and engaged approach to our learning. We learn through reading, application, experience, and even trial and error. Whether we are looking to progress physically, intellectually, emotionally or spiritually, we learn by doing. The New Testament reads, “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” (see James 1:22). It can sometimes be difficult to be “doers.” The world we live in makes it incredibly compelling to simply be “hearers” or even “watchers.” Podcasts, reels, posts and unlimited entertainment are found on every device and can fill our days with interesting but perhaps not vital information. But even with AI and the technological leaps we are all witnessing, real advancement and achievement come only from someone doing something. The renowned author Rudyard Kipling penned these words of advice in a poem to his son:
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And — which is more — you’ll be a Man, my son!
(“If,”
by Rudyard Kipling, in “Rewards and Fairies,” published in 1910, page 182.)
As
Rudyard Kipling observed, the 60 seconds here and there matter. As we embrace
the process of learning by doing, we can find progress in those small but
significant moments. Even with limited time and our busy lives, we each can fill
our minutes with continuous learning and purposeful action — learning and
action that lead to rewarding accomplishment. Please be Safe, Happy and have
Peace
21
February 2025
We
were all created to grow. Life is an adventure in learning and progress,
becoming a little wiser and better each day. In this sense, without some kind of
growth or improvement, we would cease to live. And this life, where we are
surrounded by fellow learners, is the best setting for learning. In fact, one
could say that there is no such thing as truly “independent” learning.
Reading a lot of books can expand your mind, but deeply connecting with another
person can enlarge your heart. These words from a wise teacher ring true: “I
learned a lot in school and from reading, but I learned the most from people —
living with them, working with them, rubbing shoulders with them, making
mistakes with them. ... People have always been my greatest teachers.” It’s
been said that if you want to become wise, treat every conversation as an
opportunity to learn. Care about others enough to learn from them. We can learn
something from everyone; lessons learned from our experiences, knowledge gained
from work and study, perspective earned from challenges and sorrow. Nothing
compares with the tutoring of life. Human relationships are the raw materials
that make a rich, meaningful, fulfilling life. So instead of using people and
loving things, wise people use things and love people. They know that in every
person, every conversation, every experience is an opportunity to learn. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
14 February 2025
Music
is a gift from heaven. It can bring peace to our hearts, lift our spirits and
give us courage. The German priest Martin Luther once said, “Beautiful music
is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one
of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.” Beautiful
music really is a present from God. And for each inspiring song, there is also a
backstory — a story that begins with an experience or emotion before
developing into song. God’s gift of music often begins by blessing its writer
and then transforms into a blessing for all who hear its sound. Consider Horatio
Spafford, who faced immense personal trials. His financial investments were
ruined in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. A short time later, his wife, Anna,
and their four young daughters set sail for Europe, and Horatio planned to join
them soon. But tragedy struck when the ship that Anna and her daughters were on
was hit by another vessel. In 12 short minutes, the ship sank. Though Anna
survived, all four of their daughters were lost at sea. Upon hearing the news,
Horatio immediately set sail to join his wife. Several days into his journey, he
passed the spot where the shipwreck had occurred. Despite his deep sadness, he
found peace and resolve in his heart, and being inspired, he wrote the lyrics to
what would become the renowned hymn “It Is Well With My Soul“. As he
passed over the watery grave of his four daughters, he penned these words:
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When
sorrows like sea billows roll —
Whatever
my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
“It
is well, it is well with my soul.”
These
words came to Horatio in a moment of desperate need. They buoyed him up when he
felt he would collapse with grief. Now, more than 150 years later, this heavenly
gift of music is printed in hundreds of hymnals around the world, and its words
continue to lift and bless the lives of countless people. God is the giver of
all that is good (see James 1:17). And one of His many good gifts is the gift of
music. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
24 January 2025
Sometimes
it can be difficult to take things into their proper perspective because we see
things only from our limited points of view. However, as we seek to apply
God’s eternal perspective in our lives, it’s like flying in an airplane and
while traveling high above the earth, being able to look down and see an entire
city in a single glance. Applying God’s eternal perspective changes
everything. Suddenly, what once might have been difficult to imagine, manage or
even explain becomes easier to navigate. This is because God’s eternal
perspective allows us to see “things as they really are”. God’s
perspective brings patience, fuels forgiveness and provides peace, enabling us
to press forward with hope. God’s eternal perspective significantly lightens
our load. Joseph of Egypt spent decades in slavery. David faced Goliath. Moses
survived the wilderness. Paul wrote letters from prison to believers. John
was exiled to Patmos. Mary, the mother of Jesus, feared not. Each of these
people and so many more applied God’s eternal perspective to their very
challenging situations. And they prevailed. They prevailed because they let God
prevail. They let His eternal perspective guide them and lead them. And we can
do the same today. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
17 January 2025
Sometimes
it can be difficult to take things into their proper perspective because we see
things only from our limited points of view. However, as we seek to apply
God’s eternal perspective in our lives, it’s like flying in an airplane and
while traveling high above the earth, being able to look down and see an entire
city in a single glance. Applying God’s eternal perspective changes
everything. Suddenly, what once might have been difficult to imagine, manage or
even explain becomes easier to navigate. This is because God’s eternal
perspective allows us to see “things as they really are”. God’s
perspective brings patience, fuels forgiveness and provides peace, enabling us
to press forward with hope. God’s eternal perspective significantly lightens
our load. Joseph of Egypt spent decades in slavery. David faced Goliath. Moses
survived the wilderness. Paul wrote letters from prison to believers. John
was exiled to Patmos. Mary, the mother of Jesus, feared not. Each of these
people and so many more applied God’s eternal perspective to their very
challenging situations. And they prevailed. They prevailed because they let God
prevail. They let His eternal perspective guide them and lead them. And we can
do the same today. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
10 January 2025
Every great thing has a beginning. A new business grows from an idea. A piece of art develops from a moment of inspiration. A skillset or talent blossoms from a desire to try something new. Anything great or grand comes from something small and simple. In fact, the scriptures teach us “that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass.” Taking that first step toward accomplishing something great is often difficult. Our seemingly small and simple circumstances can make the idea of future achievement seem nearly impossible. So how does a beginner begin? Do what you can.” Starting where we are begins with small and simple things. A simple idea inspires action, and the action is repeated and improved upon over time, eventually turning into something grand. No great thing can ever be accomplished if you don’t start somewhere. So start where you are, use what you have and do what you can. With time, your small and simple efforts can transform into something great and grand. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
3 January 2025
A new year is here — a time for new beginnings, new goals and new dreams, a time when we look forward to the future and consider what we want to accomplish and what we hope might come true. Since I was a child, I can recall regularly looking forward to the future — always thinking of and anticipating the next exciting event in my life. Some of these events included getting a driver’s license, graduating from school, getting married, starting a career Certainly these were events worth looking forward to. As I’ve now grown older, I find myself wishing that time could slow down. I’m even old enough now to at times have remembered a past event and said to myself, “Those were the good old days!” But a somewhat recent thought has stuck with me: “These days are the good old days of tomorrow!” At first, that concept felt a bit strange, but as I’ve continued to think about it, I really feel it’s true. The very days we are in — days that are busy, days that are challenging, even days that aren’t perfect, and most aren’t — these days are the good old days of tomorrow. These are the days with rich moments that we will look back on and yearn to relive. These are the days that in the future we will recall with fondness, days when we were growing and being stretched, days when we were learning and experiencing, days when we were making the memories of a lifetime. Looking forward to the future is necessary and important. Reflecting on the past can offer perspective and growth. But living in the present allows us to enjoy in real time events and experiences that will become the good old days of tomorrow. Living in the present ensures that we do not defer until tomorrow the joy we might treasure up today. Yes, we’re making the good old days of tomorrow, hour by hour and day by day. So as we look forward to another year and as we remember the many good years of the past, may we set a new resolution: to live fully in the present, today. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
27 December 2024
I
met with a young man who essentially said to me, “I’m nobody.” Now, these
weren’t the words that actually came out of his mouth, but they were the words
his countenance portrayed, as evidenced by his downward gaze, slumped shoulders,
and mumbled remarks. This great young man was facing what I would describe as
mistaken identity. He was mistaken about who he really was. To him, who he
really was, was the image he portrayed on the outside, and so, he put on a
really good show. But on the inside, this mistaken identity had led to shame,
regret, and a lot of second guessing. The voices of the world want to tell us
who we are and who we should be. We are surrounded by persuasive voices, . . .
belittling voices, sophisticated voices, and confusing voices. These are often
the loudest voices. But as we turn the world’s volume down, we are able to
hear the most important voice of all—the still, small voice of God’s gentle
Spirit confirming our true identity and great worth in His sight. The
Apostle Paul said, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we
are the children of God.” That is our true identity! And understanding
that changes everything. This is exactly what happened to my young friend. When
he listened to the voice of his Father in Heaven, everything changed. As days
turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, he discovered who he really is.
He remembered his true identity. Now, it was not without great effort. He spent
time connecting with God every day—reading scripture, praying, and following
the guidance of God’s Spirit. He didn’t hear God speak words, but God gave
him feelings in his heart and thoughts in his mind, glimpses that helped him
remember who he is. Doing God’s will, he “came to himself,” as the
Bible says. His happiness increased, and his confidence grew. I’m grateful for
the privilege of witnessing my young friend’s transformation. His journey
inspired me to remember God’s promise to all of us: “I will lead you
along.” As God leads us, we discover for ourselves that there are no
“nobodies.” Each of us is a child of the living God, and that means we are
somebody! Please be Safe, Happy and find Peace.
20 December 2024
Luke
2
And
it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus
that all the world should be taxed.
And
all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
And
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto
the city of David, which is called Bethlehem …To be taxed with Mary his
espoused wife, being great with child.
And
so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she
should be delivered.
And
she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and
laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
And
there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch
over their flock by night.
And,
lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round
about them: and they were sore afraid.
And
the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of
great joy, which shall be to all people.
For
unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the
Lord.
And
this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling
clothes, lying in a manger.
And
suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God,
and saying
Glory
to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace
13 December 2024
It
was Christmas Eve, 1818, in the small Austrian village of Oberndorf. Just after
midnight in St. Nicholas Church, the carol “Silent Night” was performed for
the first time. The words had been written two years earlier by a young priest,
Joseph Mohr, who recognized the effects the Napoleonic Wars had on his
congregants. These were dark and heavy times. But the wars had ended, and
Joseph wrote from his heart the now famous words, “Silent night! Holy night!
All is calm, all is bright.” Joseph’s words were, of course, written about a
most holy night — the night of the birth of Jesus Christ. Yet, in a way, his
words also invite us to look for and create our own moments that are quiet and
still — moments when we purposely put the world’s pressures on hold; moments
when we take time to reflect, to give thanks and to be peacemakers; moments that
are silent; moments that become holy. Imagine what a silent night might have
looked and felt like in that small Austrian village all those years ago. The
night is calm and free from the pace and demands of a large city. A bright moon
highlights the snow blanketing the earth, and a single candle burns in a room
warmed by fire. For you and me, in a setting like that, what might we feel? What
new thoughts and ideas might come? What invitations from heaven might we
receive? Holy moments are often created by the silent moments preceding them. As
we look forward to Christmas, let us search for our own silent and holy moments,
our own moments of calm and bright. Then we can truly enjoy the real purpose of
this magnificent season — to remember Him, the “Son of God, love’s pure
light.” Please be Safe, Happy and be Merry.
6 December 2024
For
more than 5,000 years, candles have been used as a source of light. And though
electricity has caused the use of candles to decrease, candles are still known
widely today for their deep symbolism in many religious and cultural ceremonies.
Candles represent light, hope, and divine guidance among other things. For
instance, those of the Jewish faith light Shabbat candles on Friday evenings to
welcome the Sabbath. Hindus light diya lamps during Diwali to signify the
victory of light over darkness. Many Christians light candles during the Advent
season leading up to Christmas to represent Jesus Christ as the Light of the
World. The light from an individual candle is of course small but potentially
powerful. The light from one candle is enough to spark new light in another.
Our individual light may feel small, but it is potentially powerful—powerful
enough to light the world! Lighting the world does not require a bonfire; it
requires a simple flame, a light from you and me. We light the world one kind
act at a time. Our individual candlelight can combine with others and burn
together brightly, illuminating every corner of the globe with hope, joy, and
peace. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
29 November 2024
All
good things, all important things, take time. That’s a truth that even
children learn, and the lesson seems to come most powerfully at Christmas. Each
year, children—and those who are children at heart—wait eagerly for the
magic and wonder of Christmas. Excitement mounts as we count down the weeks,
anticipate the days. Surely at least some of the joy found at this festive
season comes from the fact that we’ve been looking forward to it for so long.
This pattern of anticipating the advent of Christmas has its roots in the very
first Christmas. The birth of Jesus the Christ was anticipated for centuries.
All eternity watched and waited for His miraculous birth, His matchless gift of
love and light. And yet only a relative few were aware when the glorious event
finally happened—like humble shepherds who kept watch over their flocks or
faithful Wise Men who kept watching the heavens, waiting for that wondrous star.
Even so, it can be hard to be patient when the wait is long. We may sometimes
feel like giving up hope. We may lose sight of the starlight of our ideals as
the world seems to grow ever darker. But like those Wise Men, we can keep our
eyes on the heavens and keep following the light of that Star of stars. As long
as the Light of the World illuminates our path, hope is never completely lost.
The Apostle Peter encouraged, “[Reverence] the Lord God in your hearts: and be
ready always to give an answer to every[one] that asketh you a reason of the
hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Jesus Christ is the answer and the
reason. He is the answer to life’s questions and problems and heartaches,[2]
and He is the reason we are full of hope—at Christmastime and always. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
22 November 2024
Blessings
come in numerous ways. Many are recognized immediately, while others seem to
unfold slowly over time. Anything that contributes to our true happiness,
well-being or prosperity is a blessing, and these blessings come from God. Some
of God’s blessings feel extraordinary, leaving little doubt that we are the
recipient of divine favor. Yet others seem, well, ordinary. But gratitude for
the ordinary blessings of life can give us extraordinary power to transform our
lives. Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into
enough, and more. ... It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a
stranger into a friend. In a way, gratitude can grow our blessings. It’s not
that the blessing itself changes, but gratitude expressed for the root blessing
causes our perspective to grow and expand, leading to an increased appreciation
for our blessings. We are surrounded by innumerable blessings that we can easily
take for granted if we are not mindful. Conversely, when nothing is expected and
everything is appreciated, life becomes magical. When we are grateful we
are at our happiest. May we all develop what some call an attitude of gratitude,
not only for the extraordinary but also the seemingly ordinary blessings of our
lives. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
15 November 2024
Have you ever felt weighed down, heavy with pressures or concerns for a loved one? Well, if you have, you’re not alone. I certainly have, and I imagine these are feelings that at one time or another everyone has felt. This world is challenging, and as a result, we each have great need for inspiration. Receiving inspiration in times of trouble is like sunshine to the soul. It warms our spirits and motivates our actions. Sometimes inspiration can be found immediately, without much effort. And yet other times, it requires patience, looking forward with hope even while remembering inspiration received in the past. So where do we look for inspiration? We look to God and to all He has created. As we do so, we recognize that everything that is good comes from Him and is inspired by Him. He is the ultimate source of our inspiration. Inspiration from God often comes as a thought or a feeling. But to fully benefit from inspiration, we must act on what we feel. Inspiration is given to move us to do something that will better our circumstances and fill us with a quiet confidence that with God, nothing is impossible. God did not abandon you. And He will never abandon you. He desires for us to find joy and purpose in our lives. As we go forward, may we seek Him as the ultimate source of our inspiration and strength, trusting that He is with us every step of the way. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
8 November 2024
I
want to share today a story, a true story, about the power of words. Whether
spoken or written, words have power to inspire, to teach, and to encourage.
Words also have power to belittle, to mock, and even to destroy. The words we
use, whether directed toward ourselves or others, create and set the lens
through which we view and navigate the world. A man had recently lost a sibling
to an unexpected and untimely death. One night, well after dark, he took a walk
along a trail near his home. As he stopped to rest, he was surprised to find a
rock perfectly positioned on the post where he had placed his hand. Someone had
written on the rock the words, “We are not powerless, we are powerful.” He
smiled, put the rock in his pocket, and went home. A few weeks later, he
returned and was surprised to find another rock in the same spot, this time with
the words, “We will come back home.” Again, he smiled, and comforted by that
thought, he placed the rock in his pocket and returned home. This same
experience occurred three more times over the next several months. Another rock
shared the thought, “What is grief if not love persevering?” Another,
“Keep walking; I know you can!” And finally, one with the simple yet
powerful word, “Faith.” Now, to this day no one knows who left these rocks
perfectly positioned in a place where this man would find them, nor does he even
know if they were left for him. But the words on these rocks brought him power.
And oh, was he grateful for those words. This man still has these rocks today,
sitting in his home serving as a constant reminder of the power of words. They
have lifted him, not for a moment, but for years. May we use our words wisely,
recognizing that words have power—even enough power to change the world.
Please be Safe, and have Peace.
1 November 2025
Wanting
peace is part of our human nature, and it has been sought after since the time
of Adam and Eve. But peace in the world can’t happen until we have peaceful
communities. And peaceful communities can’t be formed until we find peace in
ourselves. Inner peace is the foundation on which external peace is built. True
inner peace comes by turning to God. As we choose to trust Him, exercise faith
in Him, and strive to do His will, we can find His peace. Sometimes it’s
as simple as yielding to a feeling to be still. Other times it requires great
resolve to act, or not act, in a certain way. And yet, in other moments it
requires prayerful pleading for peace to enter our heart and to stay with us. It
takes great effort to develop and cultivate inner peace. Day by day, choice by
choice, experience by experience, peace can grow within us. This effort requires
real work, even everything we have. But we don’t have to do it alone! The
Prince of Peace Himself once declared: “My peace I give unto you: but not as
the world giveth. . . . Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be
afraid.” As we receive His peace deep into our hearts, we are changed. We are
strengthened. We feel calmness and confidence, even in very challenging
circumstances. This same Prince of Peace commanded: “Peace, be still. And the
wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” The search for peace, whether for
the world or ourselves, begins with a choice—a choice we make within. As we
choose peace each day, both by extending it to and receiving it from others, we
can experience this “great calm” and rejoice in the invitation to “be
still,” even in a troubled world. Please be Safe, Happy and truly have
Peace.
25 October 2025
The
voices of the world want to tell us who we are and who we should be. “We are
surrounded by persuasive voices, . . . belittling voices, sophisticated voices,
and confusing voices.” These are often the loudest voices. But as we turn the
world’s volume down, we are able to hear the most important voice of all—the
still, small voice of God’s “gentle Spirit confirming our true identity and
great worth in His sight.” The Apostle Paul said, “The Spirit itself beareth
witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” That is our true
identity! And understanding that changes everything. Please be Safe, Happy and
have Peace
18 October 2024
We
live in a society that often seems to value outgoing, adventurous personalities
over others. In a variety of ways, our culture suggests that we need to be bold
to be successful, talkative to be happy, even loud to be worth hearing. This
message is so pervasive that those who are more introspective, private, and
quiet can begin to feel ashamed of their personality traits. They may long to be
the life of the party—not the one who sits in the corner, lost in thought.
They might think they need to be the one with many friends, not the one who
enjoys fewer but deeper relationships. The culture may lead them to think that
it’s better to be the center of attention—not the one who is content to
observe. The truth is that much of this world’s most inspiring art, most
important discoveries, most influential ideas, and most revolutionary inventions
were the work of people who tended to be more quiet, who did not seek the
spotlight. In fact, it may be that the inclination to be quiet, deliberate, and
contemplative is more likely to foster such achievements than a bold, aggressive
approach. By some estimates, approximately half of us are more introverted than
extroverted. And that feels about right. The world was not meant to consist of
only one kind of person. Our lives are enriched by varieties of personalities
and dispositions, likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses. We need
thoughtful, cautious people just as much as we need daring risk-takers. We need
introverts and extroverts and everything in between. Most of us have a little of
both in our nature anyway; traditional labels are too simplistic to truly define
anyone. And our personality develops over time; nothing is forever fixed in
place. When anyone neglects his or her talents, we all suffer. On the other
hand, when everyone is encouraged to be authentic enough to develop their gifts
and then selfless enough to share them, they unleash their potential, make
meaningful contributions, and find contentment—and we’re all the better for
it. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
11 October 2024
Every so often, life gives us little moments that help us understand some of the meaning behind the words “Dearest children, God is near you.” A toddler lets go of your finger and takes her first few steps on her own. Years later, you watch with some pride but also some concern as she walks through the doors on her first day of school—and every day thereafter. And then, finally, those feelings return as she heads out to establish her own home and start the process over again with her own family. With each step, she grows more independent and strong. Yet she forever remains your beloved child. That must be a little like the way our Heavenly Father feels about us. He knew that we needed to leave His presence for a time to learn and grow through our own choices, our own experiences. And yet He’s never really that far away. We may need the experience of stumbling on unsteady feet, of stretching our minds with challenging information, or of having our hearts broken through difficult challenges. But we also need to know that through it all, we remain His beloved children—that He is near us, and we don’t face any of those challenges alone. He can lift us to our feet again. He can shine the light of truth on our confusion. And He can heal our wounded heart. Of course, we cannot expect our Father in Heaven to make our problems disappear. Without friction, there is no forward motion. Without resistance, we build no strength. But because we know that God is our Father, we also know that He isn’t trying to trick us or trap us or trip us up. He wants us to be happy; He wants us to succeed. He so loved us that He gave us a Savior. In a world of discouragement, of doubt and discord, He gave us commandments to love Him and one another. Our steps may be unsteady at times, but if they are steps toward Him, the journey can be sweet and the destination glorious. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
4 October 2024
We
do live in a wonderful world! All around us we see stirring evidence that
“there is a God” from the most majestic, sweeping landscapes to the tiniest
detail of the smallest flower. We rejoice with the psalmist who declared, “The
heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament [shows] his handywork”
(Psalm 19:1). We can learn a lot about a creator by studying His handiwork. So,
you might ask, what do we learn about God from this wonderful world He created?
For starters, His diverse creations complement one another in the harmonious
ecosystems of the earth. We see the same truth in His crowning creation: His
children. He has created us in His image, and yet each of us has unique
personality traits, gifts, and talents. He knows our names. He cherishes our
souls. And when we pray, He hears our one-of-a-kind voices and responds to our
personal needs. Nature also teaches us that God delights in change and growth.
For example, even as we enjoy these stunning leaves of red, yellow, amber, and
gold. The perfect preparation for new life—for the green of spring and the
warmth of summer. Like trees, we too are created to endure the winters of life.
God prepares us to emerge from our trials renewed in His strength. And His work
of Creation continues. Observing God’s hand in our lives might inspire us to
raise our own prayer, a song of praise, an act of service. Whatever we do to
show our thanks, we remember that our Creator is the “fount of every
blessing.” When we “tune [our] heart[s] to sing [His] grace,” we are
assured that we may yet “safely … arrive at [our heavenly] home,”
encircled in the arms of His “redeeming love.” Please be Safe, Happy and
have Peace.
20 September 2024
We
all know that every person has basic needs: food, water, shelter. But we don’t
often think of some less-visible needs. The philosopher and psychologist William
James is credited with saying, “The deepest craving of human nature is the
need to be appreciated.” And yet so many people go days, weeks, months, or
even longer without ever hearing a word of thanks or getting any recognition for
their good work. Conveying appreciation costs so little, but it means so much. A
little effort—a word or two, a note, a smile, a hug—can express how much we
appreciate another person and give credit where credit is due. It can be
surprising how profoundly such an act of appreciation can change people’s
attitude about their work and effort and inspire them to do more. It’s hard to
forget a genuine compliment or a sincere expression of appreciation and
admiration. We treasure it always. Unfortunately, noticing the good that others
are doing does not always come naturally. So, the first step to helping others
feel appreciated is simply to notice. It is true that humanity’s deepest need
is the need to be appreciated, then perhaps it is equally important to show
appreciation—to make a difference in someone’s life by expressing how much
we appreciate a job well done. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
13 September 2024
People all over the world, in every culture and clime, pursue greatness. The desire to succeed and excel is as universal as it is natural. But what is true greatness? How do we know when we have achieved it? Some might say that greatness happens in rare, extraordinary moments when someone of unusual ability rises above his or her peers. To do one’s best in the face of the commonplace struggles of life — and possibly in the face of failure — and to continue to endure and to persevere in the ongoing difficulties of life when those struggles and tasks contribute to others’ progress and happiness, … this is true greatness. Such greatness — far from being unusual or exceptional — can be found all around us, though it sometimes goes unnoticed. It is evident in the humble heroes who consistently do the right thing, even when no one is watching. It’s found in those who, day after day, sometimes year after year, care for their loved ones who are ill or elderly. It could be a father who never lets a teaching moment pass with his children; a mother who sees that the needs of her family are met — even, at times, at the expense of her own; a teacher who notices a struggling student and offers extra, individual attention; a co-worker who takes the time to compliment others on a job well done; or a husband and wife who gently love each other and their children. In such commonplace settings, we find the makings of true greatness. Other kinds of success, based on worldly praise, reward and recognition, are really just an illusion. Not loud or pretentious, true greatness does not shout from the rooftops or seek attention among the crowds. Most often, true greatness doesn’t grab headlines. It’s usually quiet, often unseen and frequently unspoken. And the rewards of true greatness are without price or parallel. They include meaningful relationships, the enduring gratitude of loved ones, and the satisfaction of a life well lived. Long after public applause has died away, true greatness lives forever in every heart it has ever touched. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
The
book of Psalms in the Bible is a collection of sacred poems of praise and prayer
to God. Many were once set to music; and today, musicians around the world are
drawn to the psalms for inspiration. So, in a sense, the book of Psalms is like
an ancient hymnbook, filled with worshipful devotion to the Most High. One psalm
that has inspired multiple musical settings contains the promise that God
doesn’t slumber or sleep as He watches over us. In fact, His tender care is so
constant that it’s easy to miss if we’re not looking for it. And so, the
psalmist declares: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence
cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”
Just as God is watching over us, we can lift up our eyes toward Him. As we do,
we’ll begin to see God’s hand, His divine signature, in our lives. Often,
lifting up our eyes means looking above and beyond worldly things toward
heavenly things. Other times, it means looking back with faith on a time of
trouble and heartache, when perhaps it felt like God wasn’t aware of us. But
those who trust God’s goodness and mercy, even when they can’t see or feel
it clearly, will get to the other side of their sorrow and find joy. Lifting up
our eyes, as the psalmist counseled, is a way to acknowledge the source of our
help. He who “made heaven and earth] can surely make our way forward. He who
is almighty can surely give us strength. We just need to look for Him and lift
up our eyes. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
30 August 2024
Music
has been called the timeless and universal language—a language of peace, of
love, of hope. No matter where we live, regardless of our age and stage of life,
music can lift and inspire us, it can soften and console us, it can instruct and
entertain us. Such music becomes like a lifelong friend. We can recall lyrics
and tunes we haven’t heard for decades, because they seem almost to be burned
into our soul. While music affects us very personally, it is also communal; it
unites people in a way few things can. As we sing or play together and listen
together, we somehow connect on a deeper level. Of course, there’s a wide
range of musical tastes and preferences. If beauty is in the eye of the
beholder, then good music is found in the ear of the listener. But in nearly
every style and genre, there is music that uplifts—music that brings
cheerfulness and a smile, a fresh insight or perspective, a poignant remembrance
or emotion, an inspiring feeling of rejoicing, gratitude, or worship. On the
other hand, there is also music that can darken, degrade, or create a cloud of
gloom. In the nineteenth-century English poet Walter Savage Landor declared:
“Music is God’s gift to man, the only art of Heaven given to earth, the only
art of earth we take to Heaven.” The sacred and uplifting music we hear today
may be created on earth but invites us to experience a bit of heaven, and when
we share it, we help make heaven here on earth. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
25 August 2024
We
each have a backstory—the experiences, events, and choices that helped shape
us into the people we’ve become. One of the best ways to understand a person,
even someone we might disagree with, is to learn his or her story. Though
most of us don’t see each other as enemies, the sentiment is clear. It’s
much harder to dislike a person whose story you understand. For example, one man
seemed to have a hard time connecting with other people. He wasn’t very easy
to talk with; he had such strong opinions about almost everything. Many people
found him off-putting or tiresome. But a neighbor made the effort to become his
friend. He listened rather than judged; he understood instead of dismissed. The
kind neighbor explained, “I learned a long time ago that everyone has a story
to tell, and the more I get to know a person, the more I like him.” This
experience has been played out countless times in countless places. Perhaps
you’ve lived it. It begins when you open your heart enough to say to someone,
in so many words, “Tell me your story”—and then truly listen. You will
hear some stories that will surprise you, others that will inspire and humble
you. As we listen with empathy and compassion, we come to see others much as we
should see ourselves: some strengths and weaknesses; some successes and
setbacks; some shining moments when we were truly our best selves, along with
some mistakes and regrets. Insignificant differences between us begin to wash
away, leaving the common experiences, hopes, and desires that unite the human
family. Of course, some meaningful differences will most likely remain, but it
will hardly seem worth ruining a potential friendship over them. In fact, the
privilege of coming to understand someone better—and maybe even finding a new
friend in the process—will become an important new chapter in our own
backstory, helping us become kinder, more compassionate people.
Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
17 August 2024
Truth
is independent; it does not change. But our confidence in the truth varies
according to our connection to God, the source of truth. That’s why spiritual
habits are so important. If we take time each day to connect with heaven through
prayer and pondering God’s word in purposeful study, we can more readily
respond to life’s difficulties with faith and clarity. We can even respond
more confidently to questions that might challenge our faith. When those
challenges come, we don’t have to try to pull from a hazy memory of what we
once read, felt or knew. It’s much better instead to draw upon recent
experiences with the divine. Life’s questions, confusions and problems become
less overwhelming and not so dark as we bask in divine light each day. We are
here on earth to learn and grow. And like every other living, growing thing on
earth, we grow gradually, consistently, day by day — not in occasional growth
spurts. Devotion to God, at its best, happens regularly, even daily. Spiritual
experiences or feelings of the past may not be enough to carry us through
tomorrow’s hard trials and hard questions. But taking time for holiness each
day will keep our spiritual memories bright and powerful. Please be Safe, Happy
and have Peace.
9 June 2024
John
the Baptist caused quite a stir with his preaching in the wilderness. Not only
did he attract a large following of humble disciples, but he also drew the
attention of powerful figures of the day. Multitudes came to be baptized by him.
Soldiers and tax collectors sought his guidance. Religious leaders demanded,
“Who art thou?” (John 1:22). Not bad for someone who wore clothes of camel
hair and lived on wild honey and locusts. When Jesus of Nazareth started
teaching too, John’s disciples were concerned. Would this new teacher draw
followers away from John? But apparently John did not savor notoriety or crave
attention for himself. Instead, in all his efforts and actions, he directed
people to Jesus Christ, the long-awaited Savior of the world. His attitude
toward Jesus was captured in one humble statement: “He must increase,” John
said simply, “but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Perhaps it was, in part,
this humility and loyalty that prompted the Savior to say, “There is not a
greater prophet than John the Baptist” (Luke 7:28). Is there a message for us
in the life of John the Baptist? Could it be that in order to increase the
Savior’s holy influence in our lives, other things will need to decrease?
Maybe our feelings of pride and self-importance must decrease so that His
meekness and mercy can increase in our hearts. Perhaps anger and contention must
decrease in order to make room for more kindness and compassion. All of that
requires change, and change can be difficult. We may need to let go of things
we’ve been holding for a long time. When that seems impossible, it helps to
remember that John the Baptist’s mission was to prepare the way of the Lord,
to prepare the people to receive Him. And part of his message was that “every
valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and
the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth”
(Luke 3:5). In other words, Jesus Christ can change things that seem permanent.
He can fill our emptiness. He can move mountains. He can straighten what is
crooked and smooth out our rough ways. To receive these miracles, we decrease
our distrust and doubt, and we increase our devotion to Him. Please be Safe,
Happy and have Peace.
24 May 2024
It’s
good to remember those who have passed on. We remember their good works, their
admirable qualities, and the ways they improved the lives of others. Every
country has such heroes, and so does every family—people who have made a
difference in the world or even just in an individual life. National heroes,
beloved family members, treasured mentors, and good friends—they’re all
engaged in the same great work, and they’re all worth honoring. Our names may
never be on a city street or park, but that doesn’t mean our efforts are
unnoticed or insignificant. Most of the good done in the world is done quietly,
simply, even anonymously—and usually one on one. Caring and praying for
others, showing compassion and kindness toward people around us may not get our
names or faces engraved on a monument, but it will leave a far more lasting
impression on the hearts and minds of the people we love. Jesus Christ “went
about doing good” (Acts 10:38), and His service was to those who were in no
position to repay Him with riches, honor, and glory. But He knew that even when
no one else sees our efforts, God sees them. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto
one of the least of these … ,” Jesus declared, “ye have done it unto me”
(Matthew 25:40). That’s the kind of service that outlives street names and
monuments. Those are good works that live forever. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace This Memorial Day.
17 May 2024
There
is definitely something godly about education, about teaching and learning,
about stretching the mind and deepening understanding. It has been said that
“education is the key that will unlock the door of opportunity.” And that
door is not just academic or financial; it’s also spiritual. To increase in
knowledge and truth is to grow a little closer to the all-knowing God of truth.
We fulfill His purpose in our lives, at least in part, by becoming lifelong
learners whose education never ends. Learning is as eternal as God Himself, and
it blesses both the mind and the spirit, the brain and the heart. People
have too often assumed that there is a conflict between study and faith. But
education for eternity comes “by study and also by faith.” We don’t have
to leave our faith at the door of the school or our reason at the door of the
church. We need both. There is no conflict between science and religion.
Conflict only arises from an incomplete knowledge of either science or religion,
or both.” By study and faith, by schoolwork and soul-work, we gain knowledge
with eternal value. If we use that knowledge to help others, the joy of our
discovery expands. When the Lord Jesus Christ invited those who “labour and
are heavy laden” to come unto Him, He added, “Learn of me; … and ye shall
find rest unto your souls.” That’s an education of the highest kind. It’s
an education of light and truth, of the head and the heart—education that will
last forever. Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
10 May 2024
“Lord,
on this day in which we honor mothers, may we love and cherish the special women
who have borne us, nurtured us, and prayed for our well-being. May our hearts
overflow with gratitude to You, who formed and knitted each of us in a
mother’s womb. We pray for strength for every mom and ask You to be the daily
bread for tired mothers. May each mother find rest in You. Amen.” Remember
that celebrating Mother’s Day is a personal choice, and some Christians may
choose not to participate due to the holiday’s pagan origins. However, Romans
14:5-8 reminds us that each person should be fully convinced in their own mind
regarding special days 12. Regardless of how you choose to observe it,
expressing love and appreciation to the maternal figures in our lives is always
a wonderful gesture. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
3 May 2024
Freedom
is, without question, a quest worth commemorating. We all hunger for freedom. We
want to be free to think, to believe, and to act. This deep love of liberty is
part of our nature; it was placed in our hearts by God, who wants His children
to be free. He gave us the ability to choose and sent us into a world filled
with choices: good or evil, right or wrong, light or darkness. Of course, God
wants us to choose good, but He will not force us to. He knows that we grow not
just by doing what’s right but by using our freedom to choose to do what’s
right. And how do we know what’s right? We aren’t left to guess. Our loving
God gives His children eternal law, based on eternal truth, so we can make wise
choices. It might seem that law limits freedom, but it does the opposite. Like a
kite that flies high in the sky only when tethered by its string, freedom
reaches its highest expression when anchored to God and His truth. Cut the
string, and the kite falls. Let go of God’s law, and freedom has no direction,
no purpose. So, we tie ourselves to God, who gave us our freedom, and learn His
law, without which freedom would be meaningless. True freedom comes from good
choices. We find freedom not by resisting truth but by living it. Freedom and
law are both precious gifts from God—raising us up and at the same time giving
us a firm foundation. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace
26 April 2024
The
world is a fascinating place filled with fascinating people. Every time we visit
a new place or meet a new person, the world opens a bit wider for us. Every new
perspective, every new insight from a new friend has the potential to enrich our
lives and unify the human family just a little more. As we learn more our
perspective, our lives, and the whole world can change for the better. The
lifelong education of the mind and spirit can help each one of us build a more
peaceful world. Maybe that’s part of the secret to achieving world peace. It
begins simply—as we get to know each other, as we learn about one another, and
as we truly see all people in this wonderful world not just as friends and
neighbors but as God’s children, our brothers and sisters.
Please
be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
12 April 2024
In
our modern world, it’s so easy to indulge in pleasure. Our great-grandparents
had to spend most waking moments with countless backbreaking chores just to
survive, but today many of those tasks don’t burden us anymore. We are more
free than ever before to seek entertainment, to do what we want to do, go where
we want to go, and eat what we want to eat, all without a lot of effort. You
might think we would be happier than previous generations. Then why aren’t we?
When we chase pleasure too much, without purpose, without effort, without
meaningful work, we end up feeling empty and unhappy. In contrast, when we
engage in more difficult but purposeful activities, we balance our brain’s
chemistry. This is why we feel better after the strain of exercising a bit,
solving a difficult puzzle, or talking with someone we don’t know. That kind
of satisfying happiness often comes after we’ve paid the price of effort,
concentration, and sacrifice. This actually isn’t a new concept. More than
2,000 years ago, the Lord Jesus Christ similarly taught that true happiness is
not found in pursuing pleasure but rather by doing something worthwhile for
someone else. He said, “Whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and
whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Pleasure and work,
joy and sacrifice are not enemies but companions in our search for
soul-satisfying happiness. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
5 April 2024
“Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two [brothers], … Peter, and Andrew … , casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. “And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. “And going on from thence, he saw other two [brothers], James … , and John … , in a ship … , mending their nets; and he called them. “And they immediately left the ship and … followed him” (Matthew 4:18-22). In this way, Jesus called His first disciples, His apostles, who would labor with Him and testify of Him for the rest of their lives. They didn’t postpone or procrastinate. They dropped their nets, left their ships, and followed the Lord, in the words of the scriptures, “straightway,” “immediately.” Such a simple description could give the impression that the choice to leave everything and follow Jesus was also simple. But surely it wasn’t. We can imagine that Peter, Andrew, James and John were relatively comfortable catching fish. They had probably been doing it for a while, and it was providing a living for their families. Now they were to leave all of that and be “fishers of men”? What did that mean? They likely felt unprepared and inadequate. And yet, when the call came, they answered with willing hearts, without looking back. Acting with faith despite the uncertainty ahead, they followed Jesus Christ through difficulty and trial, hardship and heartache, until the end of His mortal life. Then, after His Resurrection, they continued to follow Him, spreading His gospel message in faithfulness and devotion. In a similar way, Jesus also calls you and me to follow Him. He calls us to set aside self-centered pursuits. He calls us to keep His commandments. He calls us to love and serve our neighbor. He calls us to strive to be more like Him. And He calls us to extend the same invitation to others. It will probably require leaving our nets — those entangling things that hold us back, that keep us from the Lord and His higher, holier ways. We may feel unprepared and inadequate. That’s where the Savior’s mercy and grace come in. With gentleness and love, He strengthens us. He supports us as we turn to Him, yield our hearts to Him and straightway, immediately follow Him. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace
30 March 2024
After the death of Jesus Christ, one of His disciples, a man named Joseph of Arimathea, asked for permission to take the body of Jesus. With help from other disciples, Joseph tenderly, lovingly wrapped the Savior’s body in a clean linen cloth, laid the Lord in a tomb, and rolled a great stone in front of the opening. The scriptures say Joseph “was a good man” who “waited for the kingdom of God” (Luke 23:50–51). He believed that Jesus was the one who would bring God’s kingdom to earth. And yet, throughout His life, Jesus was mistreated and mocked, “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3). And then as the darkness of night descended on Jerusalem, His body lay lifeless behind a heavy stone. It must have felt so final. But of course, it wasn’t final. The promise of Easter is that Jesus Christ has overcome all obstacles, all heartache and sorrow. Life continues after death, darkness will give way to light, and all that is wrong can be made right. The next day, “very early in the morning, … at the rising of the sun” (Mark 16:2), Mary Magdalene and two other women came to the tomb. There they found, to their astonishment, that the stone had been removed, the tomb was empty, and two angels reassured them with the good news that has echoed through the ages: “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here but is risen” (Luke 24:5–6). Jesus Christ has many titles, and each one teaches us something important about Him. He is known as the Redeemer, the Prince of Peace, the King of kings, the Light of the World. But today, we honor the title He taught to His friend Martha: “I am the resurrection, and the life” (John 11:25). He is risen. And because He is risen, all humankind will be resurrected and live again, including you and me. Death is not the end; no tragedy is final. The great, heavy stones that block our way can all be removed. Everything that seems so unfair about life can be put right. The wounded will be healed, the heartbroken will be comforted, and all that is lost will be restored. All because He is risen. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
23 March 2024
Have
you ever had a feeling that you needed to do some act of goodness? Maybe a name
came to your mind along with the thought, “He needs a friend; you should reach
out.” Or maybe a decision had been weighing on you, when you received a sudden
spark of clarity and somehow you knew—beyond your own reasoning—what you
should do. You may have felt a nudge to apologize to someone. Or perhaps a
message came to your heart that helped you see someone with more patience and
compassion. We often call these thoughts and feelings “promptings,” and
sometimes they’re so subtle and so unexpected, we wonder where they came from.
The answer is that if it invites you to do good, to be kind, to help others, to
love God and serve Him, it comes from God. Anciently, the prophet Elijah learned
about the Lord’s quiet promptings. Elijah was known for some remarkable
manifestations of divine power. He sealed the heavens to keep rain from falling,
and he called down fire from the sky—all in an attempt to persuade people to
turn to the Lord. But it wasn’t working. Alone, exhausted, and discouraged,
Elijah fled for his life and hid in a cave. There the Lord spoke to Elijah, but
not in a “strong wind” or an “earthquake” or a “fire.” Instead,
Elijah found Him in “a still small voice”. To hear a quiet voice, we need to
be quiet too. We may miss the grandeur of God, as well as His quiet whisperings,
if we surround ourselves with too much busyness and noise. God does want to
speak to you. He wants to whisper comfort and reassurance. He wants to offer
guidance. And there may be some prompting He wants to give, some good thing
He’d like you to do. When we settle down enough to listen to that still, small
voice, when we respond to a whispering nudge to do something good, we’re
answering a call from God. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
11 March 2024
We
all wish we could make the world a better place. It’s just that we assume big
problems require big solutions, and our efforts seem so small. But what if,
instead of being paralyzed thinking of what we can’t do, we each picked
something simple we can do? For example, what if we decided to give others the
benefit of the doubt, to be slower to judge, and to truly wish them well? Could
a simple choice like that make a dent in the turmoil, contention and anger that
surround us? Could elevating our thoughts, actions and interactions to a higher,
holier level somehow elevate the whole world? Here are some examples of people
trying to do just that: a man says a silent prayer every time he hears or sees
that someone is hurting. Even if he is not able to offer direct help, he humbly
asks God to intervene in that person’s behalf. It may not seem like much, but
it’s heartfelt and sincere. A woman continually looks for the good in others,
even when it’s hard to find. When listening to a speaker who some might find
boring, she pays extra close attention, offering nonverbal encouragement. When
she is snubbed by someone, she considers what might be happening in that
person’s life to make them act that way. This approach always leads to
compassion, and she chooses not to retaliate. Similarly, another woman set a
goal to be more patient. She reminds herself of her goal every morning, and
throughout the day she finds herself in situations that certainly require
patience. Instead of resenting those moments, she gives thanks for the
opportunity to improve. Do such small gestures really change the world? Yes,
they do, because they change people, and people are what make up the world. The
change may not happen overnight, but it does happen — moment by moment, day by
day, one softened heart and one healed relationship at a time. Some positive
growth, some encouraging development, some promising effort is always better
than nothing. Long ago, the Apostle John expressed that kind of positive
thinking: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in
health” (3 John 1:2). May we offer that same hope, that same prayer, uplifting
each other and, eventually, the whole world. Please be Safe, Happy and have
Peace.
3 March 2024
In
1978, Nobel Prize winner Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn spoke at Harvard’s
commencement ceremony. The students in the audience had reason to be proud of
their accomplishments. They were graduating from one of the world’s most
prestigious universities. Future success, at least by worldly standards,
probably seemed assured. To this accomplished audience, Solzhenitsyn gave a
stark and humbling reminder: We are “born to die.” And since that’s the
case, he continued, then our “task on earth evidently must be of a more
spiritual nature [than just to be happy]. It cannot be unrestrained enjoyment of
everyday life. It cannot be the search for the best ways to obtain material
goods and then cheerfully get the most of them. It has to be the fulfillment of
a permanent, earnest duty so that one’s life journey may become an experience
of moral growth, so that one may leave life a better human being than one
started it.” It’s good counsel for high-achieving college graduates and for
all of us. No matter what we’ve accomplished in the past, life is an ongoing
quest to be better. And since life on earth is temporary, that quest would feel
empty if it did not improve us spiritually. This is a spiritual quest, and it
includes not just becoming smarter and more productive but also gentler, kinder,
more patient, more hopeful, more loving. That is the quest of a lifetime. This
quest requires that we learn the difference between the temporary and the
permanent. Along the way, we come to understand that among those permanent
things are memories, relationships, wisdom, and love. We come to see that
goodness and compassion outlive us, that people matter more than things, that
God is real, and He matters most of all. We discover the truth of the Biblical
proverb: “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving
favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1). Higher education is a
blessing. But the highest education comes as we strive to nurture our faith in
God and grow our moral and spiritual nature so we can leave this life a better
human being than we were when we started. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
17 February 2024
The story is told of a man who was looking through his wife’s belongings shortly after she passed away. In her dresser, he found a very nice piece of clothing that she had bought on a trip many years earlier. He realized that she had never worn it; she was saving it for a special occasion. And now it was too late. Later, the husband shared this experience with a friend, adding this advice: “Don’t save something only for a special occasion. Every day in your life is a special occasion.” Those words changed his friend’s life. She said: “Now I spend more time with my family. I use crystal glasses every day. I’ll wear new clothes to go to the supermarket if I feel like it. The words ‘someday’ and ‘one day’ are fading from my vocabulary. Now I take the time to call my relatives and closest friends. I’ve called old friends to make peace over past quarrels. I tell my family members how much I love them. I try not to delay or postpone anything that could bring laughter and joy into our lives. And each morning, I say to myself that this could be a special day. Each day, each hour, each minute, is special.” So many of our days—with their humdrum, their pressures, and their demands—don’t seem particularly special. But the fact is that life itself is miraculous and marvelous; it is, in a word, special. That doesn’t mean every day is always sunny and sparkling. We all have hard days and challenges, some of them ongoing. But it’s also true that every day has something, some little thing, that makes the day special: a bit of beautiful music, the sound of a bird, a cool breeze on a hot day, the thoughtfulness of a friend. Usually, the little things are the big things. In waiting for a special occasion, we might miss the many special occasions happening every day. So, what if, instead of postponing life, we lived each day as a gift? After all, the fact that God has given us another day of life is surely cause to celebrate. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
10 February 2024
We
live in a time when people value busyness. If your schedule is full and your
to-do list is long, people assume you’re living a pretty successful life. But
is that necessarily so? If we search our hearts, many of us would say we want a
close relationship with God, a happy family, good health, and good
relationships. But if we don’t make time for those most important things, then
before we know it, other demands of life quickly crowd them out. Seeing that
this was happening in his own life, one man decided to turn things upside down.
He wrote a list of his real priorities. When he put God at the top, he realized
he needed to schedule a block of time for daily prayer and scripture reading.
And he decided that time needed to come first, not after dashing about all day
left him too tired. No, he would let his first conversation each day be with
God. Suddenly the other things took care of themselves. Taking some time for
spiritual connection improved all his other connections—with his family,
coworkers, and neighbors. His life was better because his priorities were
better. When we feel dissatisfied with life, maybe our problem isn’t that
we’ve failed; it’s that we’re succeeding at the wrong things. When we’re
true to our highest priorities, we’re more relaxed, and our thoughts are
clearer, our step is lighter. We know who we are and where we’re going. When
we place eternal things ahead of material things, we are on the path toward the
only success that matters—success that lasts forever.
Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
3 February 2024
For
as long as people have put pen to paper, they have found satisfaction in keeping
journals. So many people of all ages record special moments in their lives,
expressing their inmost feelings and thoughts. Some do it to leave a record for
their posterity; others write only for themselves. There’s just something
about putting our life into words that helps us see it clearly, understand it,
and over time, make it better. Very often, the most difficult step in journaling
is simply getting started. Experienced journal keepers have found that it helps
to establish a rhythm for writing. It can be different for everyone; some
journal every Sunday afternoon, before breakfast on weekdays, on the train
during the daily commute, or just before bed. Journaling, they discover, invites
order, awareness, and peace into their lives. Some
find healing and peace in the pages of their journals. Others find deeper
understanding of their own emotions, which helps them connect better with
others. By remembering and reflecting, by writing things down, we can see how
we’ve grown over the years. And seeing how we faced challenges in the past
might give us courage to face what lies ahead. Even if we write only one line
every few days, journaling can help us while also turning our thoughts
heavenward, opening our hearts to gratitude for the Lord, His grace, and His
goodness in our lives. Please be
Safe, Happy and have Peace.
27 January 2024
As conflicts rage around the world, we may feel unsafe, helpless, even hopeless at times. But God doesn’t want His children to feel that way. He knows all about the world’s problems; yet He also knows how to give, as the scripture says, “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness” (Isaiah 61:3). Jesus said, “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46). Because of that belief, that trust, we can find beauty even on ugly days, light even on dark days, and peace and joy even amid turmoil and sorrow. Does that mean we just close our eyes to the suffering in the world, pretending that all is well? No. It simply means that we seek out, hold up, and promote the good, the true, and the beautiful. Real peace and joy come from the quiet assurance of a better world to come. And what will bring that better world? The patient, tireless efforts of people who, with faith in the Lord and trust in His promises, are striving to do what’s right, here and now, even when it’s not easy. Peace and joy can dwell in our souls, even when the peaceful, joyful world we envision seems far away. We get a foretaste when we allow God into our lives, when we extend to others the love and respect of our common humanity. If you asked someone what it’s like to experience peace and joy amid turmoil and sorrow, they may have trouble explaining it. The feeling is real and deep and powerful, but it’s also indescribable, unspeakable, too great to even express in words. You simply have to experience it to understand it. It comes in quiet moments, sometimes unexpectedly. As the Apostle Paul taught, “The peace of God … passeth all understanding” (Philippians 4:7). But we do understand this: the peace of God begins when we accept the Lord’s invitation to “have peace one with another” (Mark 9:50). Peace must first come from within; then it can flow from us to the home, to the community, and to the world. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
20 January 2024
Beauty
feeds our souls. We need food, water, and shelter to survive, but we need beauty
to thrive. So in addition to planting vegetable gardens, we plant flowers. We
build shelters, but we also paint murals, lay decorative tile, strum guitars and
build fountains. We crave the
creativity that enhances our existence, even though some might consider it
“nonessential.” We were created not just to live but to have joy. When we
create and appreciate beauty, we are following the pattern of our Creator. He
made the sun because we need sunlight, and He also made sunrises and sunsets
colorful because we need beauty. As His children, we do the same when we create
works of art like these colorful tiles — not so much because they’re
functional but because they’re beautiful. Similarly, we could state a truth,
or we could share it through poetry and music, and suddenly the truth becomes a
treasure. Beauty improves life. Just days before His burial, the Lord was
approached by a woman with “an alabaster box of ointment … very precious”
(see Mark 14:3). In a sacred and loving act of worship, she applied the fragrant
oil on the Savior’s head. Some responded critically: the oil was so expensive,
the gesture so unnecessary. But the Savior answered, “She hath wrought a good
work on me” (see Mark 14:6). The cost of the oil would soon be forgotten, but
the woman’s beautiful gesture would always be remembered. Whenever we lovingly
create, whenever we carefully beautify, whenever we lift others with our
creative acts of loveliness, we glorify God. We bring ourselves and others a
little closer to the divine. So next time you’re inclined to make something
beautiful, “reason not the need.” Make the world a little better by making
it just a little more beautiful. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
12 January 2024
In
the court of everyday life, we often decide to become self-appointed judges,
even if we aren’t qualified or wise. That may be all right when it comes to
personal decisions about what to do and how to live. But it becomes a problem
when we start judging other people. The problem is that we don’t see clearly.
God is the only perfect judge, only He knows each person’s background,
intents, actions, and heart. As for the rest of us, if we really want to help
others with something as small and superficial as a mote or speck of dust, the
best place to start is by removing the beam—the long, thick lumber—blocking
our own vision. Unless we get that order right, we do more harm than good. Peace
can only come as we resist the damaging pastime of passing judgment. That peace
comes both in this life and the next, for the Lord also said, “With what
judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure, it shall be
measured to you again.
In other words, the measuring stick we use to judge others will someday be used to measure us. When that day comes, knowing that we haven’t fully measured up, we will all surely hope for mercy. So, it’s helpful if mercy hasn’t been a total stranger to us. In the meantime, we would do well to withhold judgment. And when we have to judge, since limited vision keeps us from judging fairly, we can at least judge mercifully. Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
5 January 2024
It takes the earth a little more than 365 days to circle the sun. Over the centuries, we’ve come to see the completion of one of those orbits and the beginning of a new one as a kind of fresh start for our lives. We use a new year to reflect on the past and anticipate the future. We ask ourselves, What have I learned? How have I changed? Who have I helped—even in small and simple ways? And what are my goals for the coming year? Of course, much is beyond our control. There are some aspects of our lives that we can’t change any more than we can change the weather or the rotation of the earth. We might face circumstances that seem to put us at an unfair disadvantage. With all the uncertainty around us, how can we anticipate a bright future? Maybe there’s an answer in Aesop’s fable of the race between the tortoise and the hare. With his strong legs and long stride, the hare started fast, sprinting ahead of the sluggish tortoise. Once he had a safe lead, the hare lay down to indulge in a little nap. Slowly and surely, one step at a time, the tortoise crept past the sleeping hare and won the race. The moral of the story is expressed in this line of scripture: “The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong.” Whatever our strengths or weaknesses, our advantages or disadvantages, we win because we never give up. We succeed because we “run with patience the race that is set before us,” whatever that race might be. Some call it a growth mindset—focusing not on our innate abilities but on our potential to grow through hard work and perseverance. The Lord said it this way to His followers: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples. It’s not how you start the race that matters; it’s how you finish. So as the earth starts another slow and steady trip around the sun, it’s a good time to reflect on where we’ve been. But we shouldn’t let that put any limits Please be Safe, Happy and have Peace.
Updated
7 January 2024