The babe took his first breath. My life forever altered. The merriment of a child overjoyed me. Yet, even though swaddled by cloths, royal titles adorned this baby. Wonderful. Counselor. Prince of Peace. Holy King. Immanuel (God with us).
Read moreAuthor: Karen Friday
The Shocking Amount of Blessings God Extends to Us
“Blessings!” Lately, I’ve formed a word-habit in my online replies. I throw out the word over and over again. Blessings! Thanks and blessings! I pray blessings over your ministry. Blessings to you and your family!
Read moreWhy God Never Calls for an Emergency Meeting in Heaven
“There’s never an emergency meeting in heaven.” I glanced at the clock in the hospital’s surgical waiting room. My heart raced faster than the second hand ticking. My daughter, Megan, needed a cyst removed from
Read moreLet Goodness Crown the Rest of 2017
Crown. I imagine the three kings of Orient in a Christmas play. My mind’s eye pictures inauguration ceremonies of royal monarchs. I envision crowning moments of beauty pageants. Iconic Disney princesses displayed in crowns. I
Read moreBack in the Day: Manners and Ethics of Past Generations
Back in the day my grandparents valued social manners and wholesome ethics. My paternal grandfather passed away before I knew him. But raised near the apron strings of my grandmothers and the worn work boots
Read moreWhat Service to Our Country Means to Me: By a 13-year-old Boy
Our nation’s entire history is founded on those who serve. As an eighth grader, my son, Caleb, entered the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest he heard about from his teacher. And the guidelines specified entries highlight
Read moreBlank Spaces and Empty Places Meant for a Father
“I love you.” His voice reassured as he tenderly kissed my forehead. Hopeful imagination of my biological father. A time of his absence in my life. A girl dreams. My being so young when he
Read moreAmerica’s Driveway and the Foothills of God
My family heritage holds roots in small town America. America Maxfield, my maternal grandmother, lived in a small town in the foothills of Virginia, Big Stone Gap, nestled in a valley surrounded by the Appalachian
Read moreGo Big or Go Home: A Cross and Empty Tomb
Go big or go home! Going big to celebrate special holidays and occasions, tossed with the memories they create, bring me joy. So, I’m enthusiastic about reindeer, flags, turkeys, balloons, party hats, fireworks, hearts, costumes—all
Read moreGod or the Man Upstairs? Losing Sight of Holiness
Send this letter to twelve people to receive a blessing from the man upstairs. Recently, I’ve seen social media posts and received chain letters. Each written from the premise of a promise. If I believe
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