Train up a child in the way they should go; even when they are old they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). My parents gave me my first Bible when I was 8 years old. It was one of the best gifts I have ever received. I was blessed. If not you, who will … More Teen and youth Christmas gift idea

To my Christian shipmates… Wishing you a meaningful and reflective day in remembrance of our fallen and disabled veterans and shipmates, and recollections of our own sacrifices (and those of our families) in service of defending our nation’s freedoms.  As I sit here drinking a cup of coffee from my VP-30 coffee mug (reserved for days such as this), I … More Have a blessed Veteran’s Day!

…But you can trust the word of God. Matthew 24:35

We tend to think of bullies as large, loud, obnoxious types, but bullies come in all sizes, personalities and political and religious persuasions. Do I put down or judge others who don’t agree with my views on politics, religion, etc., etc. Or am I patient with all people in order that by my love and … More Am I a bully?

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) That was today’s Bible verse for my small group’s “40 Days … More Anxiety

When I showed up for tennis Wednesday morning @ 6 the courts were dark.  I’m often the first player to get there.  We have a first come, first serve system (if you’ll pardon the pun). Our tennis court maintenance man said there was a homeless man sleeping on the bench between the courts.  I suggested he turn on … More Homeless on the tennis courts

I had a Baptist pastor friend of mine tell me once that the Gospel (the “good news of salvation in Christ”) was so simple that a 6th grader could understand it. Another pastor friend of mine, a nationally known Presbyterian minister, once said to me that he feared that we Presbyterians tended to “over-intellectualize” the … More The simple truth

I had the pleasure of watching the French Open (live on NBC no less) yesterday afternoon. Many commentators and tennis greats were calling it the best tennis match ever, calling it a classic in real time as it was being played out live. Impossible shots, long rallies. It was amazing, almost miraculous tennis. Nadal is … More Dust in the wind

Yes! It has eternal significance. I was recently engaged in what might best be called an “existential” conversation on the tennis courts recently. A bit unusual for 7 am in the morning, and on the tennis court sidelines no less. It began with my comment concerning the horrible loss of life in India recently due … More Does what we believe matter?