Diane Virginia: Show ‘n Tell

A GRANDMOTHER AND A GRANDDAUGHTER “We taught the daycare children by example, and you were with me.” Mrs. Gertrude said, tickling her granddaughter, Sharon’s side. “I remember,” Sharon said, “but I’m twelve now!” Mrs. Gertrude smiled as her ‘little Sharon’ donned her best grown up imitation. “Do you remember our career center? You and your friends pretended to be scientists, engineers, beauticians, firefighters, or ballerinas by wearing hats. Then we’d share read-to-me books while we passed the featured hat around.” “It was fun,” Sharon … Continue reading →

Diane Virginia: Prayers for Bessie

Before sunrise, Pastor Troy unlocked the doors of Countryside Church. It was his custom to pray for the people before they arrived. He touched the back of a pew where Bessie customarily sat. “Father God, I lift Bessie up to you…” A tear trickled down his cheek as he prayed. *** Outside, the sun crested the horizon. Congregants were starting to arrive. Bessie cupped her hand to her mouth. She asked Sue to keep a secret, “Pastor visited a liquor … Continue reading →

Stephanie Pavlantos: Finding Healing from Unhealthy Relationships

Have you ever opened up a jewelry box to get out a necklace and found a tangled mess of chains, watches, and bracelets? This is the way our memories and emotions can get when we’ve experienced hurt from a friend. We have all been in that occasional bad relationship or had hurt feelings from a spouse, friend, or family member. You may have even been in an abusive relationship. These feelings can run deep with memories that replay over and … Continue reading →

Stephanie D Pavlantos: Betrayed, But Not Alone

Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’” ~Mark 14:27 ESV Have you ever been in a difficult or dark time when you felt all alone? Did it feel as though everyone you knew had forsaken you? Maybe it was a crisis in your family or marriage, and your friends didn’t know how to handle it. A difference in beliefs or convictions can drive … Continue reading →

Diane Virginia: Prayers for Bessie (3-Min)

My servant Job shall pray for you. Job 42:8b KJV Before sunrise, Pastor Troy unlocked the doors of Countryside Church. It was his custom to pray for the people before they arrived. He touched the back of the pew where Bessie customarily sat. “Father God, I lift Bessie to you.” A tear trickled down his cheek…. *** Outside, the sun crested as congregants arrived. Bessie asked Sue to keep a secret, “Pastor visited a liquor store.” She lifted an empty … Continue reading →

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