Here we are again staring down another election. It’s been a brutal year and the next couple weeks are likely to be even worse. What’s a person to do? How can a Jesus-follower cast a faithful vote in a race cluttered with many issues and strong personalities? Let me offer…
Is it ever possible to have too much of a good thing? In 1995, Daryle Singletary released his hit song, Too Much Fun, which he says he never had. While it’s hard to conceive of such a scenario, excesses of even good things can sometimes be detrimental. In 1858, Australia…
We are very blessed today with many modern conveniences. Indoor plumbing, electricity, and microwaves are so commonplace now that it’s difficult to imagine life without them. Many homes are high-tech with the ability to change the thermostat, start the coffeepot, or adjust the lighting from thousands of miles away through…
Several months ago, the Valley was enjoying the beauty and fragrance of many apple blossoms as Jonathan, Granny Smith, and others burst into their springtime finest. Although the annual festival was cancelled, the trees went right on blooming regardless of whether we celebrated them or not. Now in late September,…
The bloodiest conflict of the Civil War took place one hundred and fifty eight years ago this past Thursday. On September 17, 1862, the battle now known as Antietam or Sharpsburg was fought less than 75 miles from Woodstock. Nearly 23,000 casualties were suffered that day with over 3600 deaths.…
There’s a lot being said today about fake news and unverified reporting. Everyone with access to the internet knows that all information found there should be fact-checked using Snopes.com or other websites. This inundation of lies and false narratives makes it increasingly difficult to know who or what to believe.…
On Monday, America celebrates another Labor Day and recognizes the unofficial end of summer. The three day weekend provides one last opportunity for picnics and getaways before the fall stretch until Thanksgiving. This holiday grew out of the industrial revolution of the late 1800s as unions organized and fought for…
This coming Monday would be my Dad’s 98th birthday. His influence in my life, our family, and our community continues to be felt in many positive ways as his legacy lives on. I was so privileged to be the son of this incredible man. As most readers remember, Dad was…
Students and teachers in Shenandoah County are gearing up to begin a very different school year. Instead of chalk dust and desks, instruction has shifted to screens and the internet. Although it presents many challenges, I have no doubt that students and teachers will rise to the occasion until they…
The last few months have been painful ones in America. Portland, Chicago, and other cities continue to suffer from riots and violent protests that have killed some, injured many, and crippled communities. I’m praying for a swift and peaceful return to calm and order. One of the most distressing images…