Max Lucado tells the story of a grandmother encouraging him during a Half Ironman triathlon. After a 1.2-mile swim and a 56-mile bike ride, he still had a 13.1-mile run ahead of him. Along the route, he found himself beside a man who “had more complaints than a taxpayer at the IRS.” Realizing the man’s…Read more Becoming a Builder-Upper
Stewardship
God Comforts Us so We can Comfort Others
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.” 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 (NLT) I haven’t felt much like writing these past few days. The health challenges I’m currently facing…Read more God Comforts Us so We can Comfort Others
Hospital Grace
Even in the middle of hospital rooms, procedures, and medical decisions, God continues to reveal His grace in quiet and unexpected ways. Admittedly, even in pain, I did not want to come back to the hospital. My wise wife called and they said, “Come now.” After triage and several “clicks” of morphine, I was grateful.…Read more Hospital Grace
Happy Valentine’s Day
Just a few minutes ago, I asked a couple what they were doing for Valentine’s Day. He gave a sheepish grin. She smiled and said, “He forgot to book a restaurant—but I didn’t expect him to remember.” Without missing a beat, he added, “I’m going to grab some steaks and put them on the grill…Read more Happy Valentine’s Day
31 Hours ‘Til
Christmas Eve 2025 As I write these words, there are 31 hours left until a new year begins—and 31 final hours for me to serve as pastor of Woodland Church. I pause in this moment with a grateful heart. Scripture tells us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to…Read more 31 Hours ‘Til
Ready for the Next Surgery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery
This week, I had my pre-op appointments for what I hope will be my final surgery on December 26. My surgeon has been described as a “rockstar” in his field—and I’m deeply grateful for the skill and excellence God has placed in my medical team. During one of the consultations, the doctor told me he had read…Read more Ready for the Next Surgery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer Surgery
My Secret to Productivity
I was given a kind compliment by one of my productivity heroes. "You are one of the most productive people I know. How do you do it?" Hoping that they realized how sincere I am about this, here is my secret. Matthew 6:33, "Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and…Read more My Secret to Productivity
Anxiety Does Not Define Us
The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety. George Muller Anxiety has become the fixed mindset defining the future for many people today, according to a clinical psychologist at a major university. So many people are worried, hurried, harried, and less confident of their…Read more Anxiety Does Not Define Us
A Season of Thanks Continues
This week between Thanksgiving and Advent has been very special for many of us. Tonight is guest post by Pastor Mark Warda. Mark is a member of the pastoral team at Woodland Church, a good friend, and a passionate follower of Christ. Take My Hand 1 Thessalonians 3:9 (NLT) “How we thank God for you!…Read more A Season of Thanks Continues
It’s Quiet Tonight
For the last three weeks we have enjoyed two of our sons and their families visiting with us. We have had several picnics, two parties, visited museums, parks, carousels, swam, and enjoyed so much good ice cream. I have laughed, wrestled, played games, watched movies, read stories, and told stories. It’s very quiet tonight. However,…Read more It’s Quiet Tonight