Shaking the Branches
Instead of rice, imagine pelting newlyweds with almonds as they leave for their honeymoon. Although it would be expensive and perhaps dangerous today, that’s what the Romans tossed two thousand years ago as a fertility blessing. While I’m not sure of the quantity of nuts thrown, I hope hard hats…
Picking Lessons From Tomatoes
Praise God for tomatoes! They are one of my favorite parts of summertime and certainly at the top of my list of veggie preferences. Once August arrives, those hard crunchy ones from the produce aisles can finally be swapped out for real ones from the garden! Ever since I was…
Facing Terror With Courage
Imagine your parents being savagely murdered in the doorway of your home while other family members are brutally gunned down or hacked to death. Although this sounds like a recent news report from Syria, Iraq, or even France, this took place right here in the Shenandoah Valley 250 years ago…
God’s Night Vision Goggles
While the dog is man’s best friend, the cat may fill that role for his wife. Although it is certainly not my preference, many women enjoy the companionship of these furry felines. As my wife reminds me, even cats can reveal something to us of the great Creator who made…
Reckless Driving With Horses
All modern motorists are familiar with the large fines and insurance increases that accompany a reckless driving charge. I was somewhat surprised, however, to learn that some drivers were cited for this even back in the days of the horse and buggy. I’m enjoying the recollections of local historian Fred…
Snakes In The Leaves
Imagine my alarm as my twelve year old son exclaimed, “Hey Dad, what kind of snake is this?” Those are the words that will immediately command every father’s full attention, especially when his 9 year old daughter is close behind that son. About a dozen years ago, the three of…
Breaking Down The Doors
I recently returned from our denominational conference in Greensboro, North Carolina and believe it or not, I don’t feel sick, evil, or guilty. While others boycott the state for its bathroom bill, I enjoyed the peace of mind this protection afforded me and all others. The relentless pressure from the…
A Godly America?
July is the month we celebrate our nation’s birthday, enjoy cookouts, and watch fireworks. What an incredible blessing it is to be a citizen of these United States and to enjoy all the freedoms that our ancestors shed their blood to provide and preserve. Contrary to many modern reports, our…
The Headwaters of Happiness
Several years ago, I had the privilege of joining a friend on some horse rides. On one particular summer day, he took me out through the woods at the foot of Great North Mountain to follow an old road that had long since grown over. As we made our way…
Driving Without a Windshield
Imagine driving your vehicle without its windshield. Your automobile doesn’t need this large sheet of glass to function properly; for the engine will still run, the wheels will still rotate, and you can still get from place to place without it. But it will affect your trip. Not only will…