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Sept. 23: National Great American Pot Pie Day

Tomorrow, September 23, is National Great American Pot Pie Day. Apparently it’s also National Checkers Day, Snack Stick Day, Restless Legs Awareness Day, International Day of Sign Languages, Innergize Day, and See You at the Pole. That’s a lot of responsibility for one Wednesday. My plan is fairly simple: Pray. Eat a pot pie. Play…

It’s National Ice Cream Cone Day

Life is short—dangerously, alarmingly short—so naturally, the most logical course of action is to eat dessert first. Always. No appetizers, no vegetables masquerading as “part of a balanced meal,” no sensible portions of anything vaguely nutritious. Just dessert. Pure, unadulterated, guilt-free dessert. A Drumstick sounds particularly appealing at this moment—you know, those delightful ice cream…

Getting Free: Peacemakers, Troublemakers and Jesus

Getting Free — Peacemakers, Troublemakers and Jesus I’ve been thinking about peace. Not the kind of peace that comes when everybody finally agrees with Charlie Wear. I tried waiting for that. It could take a while. I’m talking about the peace Jesus offers—the kind that can exist while the world around us is still noisy,…

Five Signs You’re Getting Old (I Think)

I have discovered five unmistakable signs that you are getting old. At least I think there were five. I wrote them down somewhere. 1. You Can’t Sleep When you’re young, you can sleep anywhere. Floor. Couch. Back seat of a car. At my age, I can have a comfortable bed, three pillows, perfect temperature and…

Getting Free: One Moment at a Time

This morning I am basking in the light of a desert sunrise. There is something about sunrise in the desert. The darkness doesn’t argue with the light. It simply gives way. Slowly at first. A little light along the horizon. Then another shade. Then suddenly the desert that disappeared into darkness last night is right…

Declare, Decree, or Fold? Prosperity Gospel at the Poker Table

Declare It, Decree It, Plant a Seed—and Shuffle Up and Deal I have spent enough time around charismatic Christianity to hear a fair amount about declaring and decreeing. Declare your healing. Decree your prosperity. Speak victory over your circumstances. Don’t make a negative confession. Stand on the Word. And, of course, plant a seed. Preferably…

Getting Free From Old Offenses: Proverbs 18 and No Hard Feelings

The author reflects on the significance of letting go of past grievances as he listens to the Avett Brothers’ song “No Hard Feelings” and reads Proverbs 18. He emphasizes the importance of choosing words that uplift rather than harm, advocating for forgiveness, open-heartedness, and maintaining peace in relationships as life draws to a close.

My nephew is homeless in Highgrove, CA

The author shares their experience with their nephew, Chris Wear, who became homeless after the author’s brother died in a motorcycle accident. Initially taking Chris in, the author faced challenges when Chris disregarded his medication. Despite this, Chris is portrayed as a talented poet and songwriter, performing music with the author’s stepson.

Ice cream or Food truck

Old people get nostalgic for the “good old days.” Back then, we didn’t need apps, subscriptions, or loyalty points—just a front porch and a functioning doorbell. We had milk, donuts, and ice cream delivered right to our door like we were minor royalty with questionable cholesterol. I loved pouring half and half on my oatmeal…

Jesus Revolution Completed: Honoring Marvin and Karen Schuler

Remembering Pastor Marvin Schuler of the Moreno Valley Vineyard Christian Fellowship, who died from a severe infection only weeks after his wife Karen. Through a conversation with Karen’s daughter, the author honors their shared devotion to Jesus and grieves the close of their earthly “Jesus Revolution.”

Discovering the Eternal Kind of Life That Begins Right Now

Over four months of train rides, the author reflects on Dallas Willard’s The Divine Conspiracy, which challenges his spiritual understanding. Engaging with Willard’s insights helps him realize the importance of simply being a student of Jesus, rather than striving for approval. This transformative journey emphasizes grace, fellowship, and the realization of eternal life starting now.

Do I care about Harris and Newsom?

The California Governor engages in leisure activities like fly-fishing with Jake Tapper, while pondering a presidential run amidst rising prices. Questions arise about Kamala Harris potentially becoming AOC’s vice-presidential candidate, highlighting the public’s frustration over political distractions during urgent personal concerns, such as unexpected disturbances at home.

Bloom Where You Are Planted — Even in Needles

Thank God, It’s Friday, on this 9/11, I’m remembering an important principle. John Wimber used to say, “Bloom where you are planted.” I always thought that was one of those little nuggets Wimber pulled straight out of the Bible. It certainly sounds like Proverbs. Turns out, it isn’t. You can search Proverbs from beginning to…

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