Contributor Lee Ann Mancini: The Greatest Invitation

Recently, I received a handwritten note card from a friend who needed me during her season of suffering. I enjoyed her simple notecard that had nothing more than a picture of the cross imprinted on the front cover, and inside she expressed her heartfelt gratitude. I also love to receive scribble-crayon thank you notes from children. They are so adorable. I think it is important that we teach children how to send thank you notes. They can be simple – … Continue reading →

Diane Virginia: Equal Opportunity

“Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?” (Luke 9:54 ESV) James and John said in unison. The disciples were bothered that the Samaritans didn’t receive Jesus as He traveled through Samaria on His way to Jerusalem. These disciples didn’t believe in equal opportunity for men they perceived to be enemies. Can you imagine James and John’s surprise when Jesus rebuked them rather than the Samaritans? Jesus knew the Samaritans misinterpreted His … Continue reading →

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: Mema’s Gifts

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 Frankie propped his Ba-Ba Bear on top of the sofa, waiting for the mail truck to arrive. Michelle also waited, quietly reading a primer, while glancing out the window at intervals. Would Mema’s gifts come today? For these two, this would mark the beginning of the Christmas season. Meanwhile, Mama stirred a pot of potato soup. She ladled out the ham … Continue reading →

Diane Virginia: The Christmas Cardigan

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV THE ARGUMENT Sparkling, sun-kissed snow caused puddles to form on the cobblestone sidewalk. Tiny streamlets meandered toward the red brick steps leading to the veranda. White colonnades, wooden rockers, and potted evergreens added elegance to this stately home. It was a picturesque morning. That is, it would have been, except for the … Continue reading →

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