For my message on the Name of Jesus last week, I closed with an illustration I found online while researching names. As far as I can tell, it’s a true story. Jean Frederick Oberlin was a minister in 18th century Germany. One day while he was traveling by foot in winter, he was caught in a snowstorm. The wind blew …
Does your kid know his name?
Last week I spoke in church about the Name of Jesus. Of course I looked for a fun illustration to break the ice at the beginning of the message. I found this one online, and it was perfect! At the end of the 1960s, many California hippies settled in Santa Cruz. They got married and had children, not necessarily in …
Representing the Name
When I was a kid, we lived in Frankfort, Kentucky, which even though it’s the state capitol, is a pretty small town. My grandfather was an FBI agent, and in a political environment, that’s a pretty big deal. He and my grandmother were prominent in Frankfort’s society. They belonged to the country club, and went to parties at the governor’s …
WHATEVER I ask? Really, Lord?
I came across a scripture passage not long ago that made me stop and think. John 14:8-14 is a familiar passage. It’s the one where Philip tells Jesus, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” I can almost see Jesus shaking his head when he replies, “Don’t you know me, even after I’ve been with …
Book Review – The Perfect Blend
Today I’m participating in the blog tour for a terrific book, written by a friend. I loved The Perfect Blend by Trish Perry. The heroine, Steph, has been jilted by her fiance and winds up in a charming small town inhabited by a delightful cast of likable characters. Reeling from being dumped by her fiance’s secretary — he didn’t even …
Praying Psalm 103 – A Practical Example
Since beginning my exercise of praying the psalms, I’ve received several emails from people who ask, “How do you pray the psalms? When I read a psalm, I just read it. How do I turn that into a prayer?” Today I read Psalm 103, and it’s such a perfect example of how to pray the psalms, I’ve decided to outline …
October 23rd Book Signing
I’m looking forward to a book signing on Saturday, October 23, at the Barnes & Noble in West Jordan, Utah. I dropped by the store today to touch base with the manager and make sure everything is a “go” for Saturday. What a pleasant surprise to find posters and signs all over the store, promoting the event! If you’re in …
A Message from 2 Chronicles
Are you facing a challenge? Does the battle ahead seem too big to handle? Take a moment to watch a brief message from one of my favorite pastors – my mom, Amy Barkman.
Book Review – Lady in Waiting
When I find a really good book, I love telling others about it. Susan Meissner’s new book, Lady in Waiting, is one of those books I can’t wait to talk about! It’s going on my list of all-time favorites. The writing is seamlessly beautiful, the story is a page-turner, and it stays with you long after you reach the end. …
Lions and Tigers and Bears – O My!
Okay, the lions and tigers are an exaggeration. But the bears and the “o my” are true. During my weekend retreat in the Smoky Mountains, my friend took me hiking. I confess was a bit out of my element. I don’t consider myself a novice when it comes to physical activity, because I do work out at the gym regularly …