A study reported by The Washington Post notes people with the highest level of optimism live between 11 and 15 percent longer than those with a less optimistic perspective.
Her father was a deputy for the Sheriff’s Department and also became an assistant pastor, making church and faith a family priority. But unbeknownst to her parents, between the ages of seven and eight-years-old, Jacquie was sexually abused.
The Barrick family had two choices after an unthinkable tragedy: to allow themselves to be torn apart or to draw closer to one another through deeper relationship with God.
Surprisingly, and most unfortunately, it happens at our churches and even in our prayer meetings. What could be so prevalent and unseemly? Gossip. Ironically, it’s the sin that no one ever wants to talk about!
Why are there are so many acts of violence that cause us to have so little hope in the future? With all these natural disasters, political problems and poverty stricken countries, how can we find hope in today’s world?
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” John 14:27. (NKJV)
What can we learn from a man in Jerusalem called Simeon? I invite you to join me in considering a cameo tucked into the Book of Luke. Simeon, like Mary and the shepherds, also participated in God’s Bigger Story surrounding the life of our Newborn King.