I’ve always been a fan of the underdog. Radically so. Even to the point of sometimes switching allegiances because “my team” was playing against the underdog team. Whether it’s because they’re the underdogs, or simply a best-loved team, or some other reason, the Cubs seemed to become America’s sweetheart team in last fall's World Series. Before the World Series of 2016, I hadn’t … [Read more...]
Just Get a Job!
March 29, 2016 By Leave a Comment
We gathered as family groups in the large student center. I was Laura Thirty-Six, age 15, and soon got acquainted with my sister Jenny (age 13) and widowed Dad, Mike (age 37). Our situation looked bleak from the outset. Dad was out of work and collecting unemployment. His check didn't even cover our rent - nonetheless food, utilities, gas or medical expenses. Desperate to provide for … [Read more...]
Is today Orphan Monday?
November 7, 2011 By 1 Comment
With tears streaming down my face, I listened, worshiped, and prayed with people from 24+ countries around the world in thousands of congregations during the live webcast sponsored by Christian Alliance for Orphans. Weighing heavy on each of our hearts were the known and nameless, near and distant orphans of the world - the 145 million children - facing uncertain futures with no mom, no … [Read more...]
To loot or not to loot?
March 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment
I like to ask questions. Questions help direct and focus thinking in ways that dialogue cannot. I also admit that I'm one willing to ask the tough questions. And I think that's ok. We need to be asking the tough questions - about ourselves, our churches, our communities, our nation and our world. Sometimes the questions I ask reflect my opinion, but other times they don't. That's … [Read more...]
When cats get hit
February 23, 2011 By 1 Comment
Monday morning as I drove into Portland to attend seminary classes, I noticed a car pulled off on the side of the road. As I drove by, the driver hurriedly got out of her car, and then I noticed it. Lying a few feet in front of her tire was a cat, struggling to get to its feet. It had obviously been hit accidentally by the driver. I don't know what ended up happening to that cat. … [Read more...]
