Supersonic Fliers

 “Those who trust God will soar high on wings like eagles." ~ Isaiah 40:31

When the alley trash can began shaking, Caleb froze in his tracks, wondering what might be inside. His initial thought was a raccoon, but experience suggested coons were smart enough to escape if curious enough to get in.

He decided to turn the can on its side and give the creature a chance to flee. With a cautious step forward, Caleb instantly jumped back as it shook more violently. Perched on the can’s rim wasn’t a raccoon, or any other furry animal, but a peregrine falcon.

Its icy stare left him feeling exposed and intimidated; the kind of gaze that penetrates the soul. The peregrine tilted its head slightly, keeping one eye on Caleb and looking inside the can with the other before retreating inside the can.

A burst of noise followed: ruffled feathers, screeching talons, and the distinct sound of a small animal snarling. Suddenly the falcon burst out and soared into the heavens with a chipmunk clutched in one claw.

Dumbfounded, Caleb took a moment for his brain to find the words to adequately express what he felt. That hawk was magnificent.

What must God be like that He makes such a fierce, beautiful creature? What must He be like that tons of aluminum can lift gracefully off the ground and fly around the globe? For centuries, gravity kept us grounded until someone mastered the science that enables us to fly.

A peregrine falcon is not a meaningless, killing machine. It’s an amazing creature, crafted by our Heavenly Father, revealing something of His creative genius.

Known for its exceptional speed, keen eyesight, and unparalleled hunting skills, the mighty raptor embodies quickness, agility, and focus. Beyond its remarkable physical attributes, the falcon offers deep biblical symbolism that resonates with believers.

Like fighter jets and missiles, peregrine falcons are built for high velocity. Their hollow bones and aerodynamic torso allow them to fly as fast as a cheetah (70 mph), and dive after prey at the speed of an Indy race car (+240 mph). The falcon’s ability to soar high above the earth reminds us to rise above earthly concerns and seek a higher perspective free from earthly constraints.

Their eyes can function simultaneously as both a macro and zoom lens, allowing it to spot small prey from nearly two miles away, and then precisely catch it in midair. Its remarkable eyesight serves as a reminder to keep our spiritual vision clear and to remain focused on our faith.

The falcon's agility, strength, and intelligence make it one of Earth's most formidable hunters. Its precise movements and unwavering focus encourage us to remain centered, purpose-driven, and prepared for spiritual battles.

Not bad for birds nearly extinct in the mid-1960s from the widespread use of the pesticide DDT.

Almighty Father, let the falcon serve as a celestial messenger, steering us toward a deeper understanding of our faith and life's purpose. Help us trust in the spiritual significance of falcon encounters while You guide our path. Amen

My Spiritual BOD

 “Get all the advice and instruction you can.” ~ Proverbs 19:20

Many of the wisest people in my life have passed away as I’ve aged. The stalwarts of good sense, judgment, and inspiration are no longer available to me. So, one day when I heard a friend talk about his Spiritual Board of Directors (SBOD) for advice on something, I listened intently.

Public companies have Boards of Directors that consist of specialized advisors with diverse perspectives, expertise, and relevant experiences. They have fiduciary obligations to act in the best interest of the shareholders and provide invaluable counsel to the firm’s CEO.

As I’m the CEO of my own life, I sit at the head of my boardroom table - or sofa, picnic table, or park bench. So I wrote down the names of people in my life I admired for advice, mentoring, and influence.

My SBOD is a secret group, known only to me. In fact, none of my Directors even knows that they’re on my Board since we never actually meet. Members are not elected, have no term limits, and receive no compensation or recognition for their services.

These 12 cherished adults of integrity, wisdom, and authenticity who help me stay spiritually healthy. I admire them because they consistently lead by EXAMPLE and motivate me to become a better person.

They come from diverse backgrounds. There’s a secretary, a Pastor, a writer, a doctor, an engineer, and several retirees. They are people that I trust implicitly and am not shy to be vulnerable with. The Holy Spirit serves as my Board Chair.

Our faith journeys are fraught with anxiety, confusion, selfishness, and at times hypocrisy. The examples exhibited by my Directors help me stay focused on my identity as a beloved child of God rather than whatever other roles I might enumerate.

It's good to be intentional about the handful of people you choose to most directly influence your actions and your character. I often find myself asking “What would _ name _ do in this situation?” Watching how they live and interact with others, helps me make decisions aligned with God's plan.

Many of us turn to friends and small groups who pray for us when asked. I find it comforting to have someone I can always turn to for prayer. My Directors are people with the gift of intercessory prayer who make it their ministry to pray for others.

So why not give it a try?

Go to your sacred space and light a candle. With pen and paper begin writing down people you know who bring focus, joy, and light into your life. Their living testimony will help you become a better Christian, and encourage you to be the person God created you to be.

Almighty Father, my heart floods with gratitude for the incredible Christians You’ve placed in my life. Thank you for their love, guidance, and unwavering faith that draws me closer to You. May I always be a reflection of Your love through the relationships You’ve graced me with. Amen

Settling In

 “He puts a little of heaven in our hearts, so we'll never settle for less.” ~ 2 Cor. 5:5

When bored or depressed, Murphy often scanned her favorite motivational YouTube videos for some lighthearted inspiration. Today’s speaker was opining about perseverance; never giving up. “What if George Sperti had given up after his first eight formulas (Preparations A through G) had failed?” she questioned.

The humorous but inaccurate answer was “He might never have invented the popular hemorrhoid treatment called Preparation H! We know how painful that would be.”

Fun Fact: It’s the most stolen item in the drugstore because people are too embarrassed to buy it.

Kidding aside, the Italian American inventor’s dogged determination eventually resulted in 127 pharmaceutical patents. He donated most of the money he received to the Institutum Divi Thomae, which he co-founded in 1935 to research cancer.

Murphy finished the video with twin thoughts on the subject. In this culture of money and materialism, one track reminded her that life often rewards those with strength and determination to keep pushing forward, even when the path seems daunting. Sometimes to the detriment of health, relationships, and satisfaction.

Could the antithesis of moving up or forward be “settling in,” she pondered; perhaps getting married, starting a family, or adopting a more stable routine. When everything seems to be working, if our marriages are comfortable, our jobs aren’t terrible, and our finances are secure, most people are satisfied. But are we giving up too early, settling for too little?

The bigger question: “Is God satisfied? Have we become content long before God’s grace has completed His work?”

Murphy knew that she needed His constant intervention until she was transformed into the perfect likeness of Jesus. She would continue to need the forgiving, enabling, and transforming power of His grace until every thought and desire in her heart pleases God. 

She would need His protection and rescue from the seductive temptations of this fallen world.

Murphy recalled what a colleague had shared years ago: “You have to bloom where you’re planted.” For example, there are many ways to see and know the world. Traveling to Rome won’t make one a Christian alone. Prayer, Bible study, fellowship, and allowing Christ the primary place in all life’s choices can make you more of a Christian than someone who lives there.

In the same way, something like “heaven” is as much inside as out; someone with a troubled mind won’t find peace anywhere, no matter how far they travel. Knowledge and contentment are found within, however much you seek it ‘without.’

So, don’t quit before Grace has completed its work. Cry out for more rescue, transformation, and deliverance. Be grateful that your Savior continues to work even in the moments when you don’t value the work you may desperately need.

Precious Lord, I’m a sinner who needs Your Grace and mercy. Shake me from my current routines and turn my focus from myself and toward You. Work in me, through me, and despite me today and every day. Amen

Bus-todian

 “My children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." ~ 1 John 3:18

In a tiny central Missouri town, children stood on ladders ready to tear off the paper covering new letters on the elementary school building. Swedeborg, an unincorporated community has only two businesses: a quick shop and a gas station.

Most of the town’s 497 inhabitants and school staff had gathered for the unveiling. They eagerly awaited the recognition kept secret until the start of the school year.

When it comes time to name a public building, communities look at either historic or financial contributors and choose a high-profile name that brings recognition. Famous Missourians like George Washington Carver, Josephine Baker, and Harry S. Truman adorn facilities across the state. So, when the School Board chose their honoree, they did so carefully.

With fanfare befitting a legend, the letters scrawled across the school’s entrance read “Claudene Wilson Learning Center.” A slightly confused custodian looked up at her name as people applauded in agreement with the Board’s unanimous decision of a rare celebrity who didn’t like attention.

The retired 64-year-old “Bus-todian,” had been the school’s bus driver, custodian, cafeteria helper, and lawn mower for more than three decades. But her most valuable role was being ‘present’ for the children.

She offered special treats like suckers or candy bars for raising grades, kind actions, or noteworthy successes. “They’re what kept me coming back since 1992,” she shared.

School Board President Chuck Boren said of the beloved handywoman, "Claudene treats every student like they're her own.” He knew firsthand. Wilson's last year at the K-8 school was his first. “When the kids get sick, they go to her first. If there was trouble at home, they go to her. She's so empathetic and attuned to every student.”

“By unanimous consent, our goal in renaming the building,” he added, “was not only to honor her 32 years of service, but also to encourage students to be kind, hardworking, and supportive - just like Claudene.”

One parent remarked, “Claudene was the glue that held our school together. By nurturing and supporting our kids, the entire community rises. Kind-hearted people like her create positive ripples into the future.”

Kristi Cargill, an elementary teacher, appreciated Wilson always checking on them to see if they needed a bathroom break or any classroom repairs, by flashing them a thumbs-up outside the hallway window. “I love coming in from summer vacation and seeing the light’s reflection on the walls and floors because she’d waxed and shined them to perfection,” Cargill added. “She never did things halfway.”

Now mostly retired, Wilson is still on campus every day and occasionally helps drive the bus. “I’m no hero,” Wilson claims, “I just hope the school’s new name inspires people to be more kind.”

Heavenly Father, it's only by following You that we can become a beacon of conspicuous love and humble compassion. Help me be a Godly example by my uplifting words, kind actions, unselfish love, and pure heart. Amen

Two Wrongs

 "Instead of drinking to excess, fill your heart with the Holy Spirit" ~ Ephesians 5:18

He’d become far too comfortable driving drunk. At first, he did everything right: using designated drivers, calling Ubers, or even chilling for however long it took to sober up. But as the years went on and Jerrod’s alcohol tolerance increased, he broke his own rules.

What started as a slight buzz evolved into full-blown drunk driving. Tonight, on his drive home, a neighbor driving toward him repeatedly flashed his headlights. It was a warning that the Sheriff was parked around the corner.

He’d been driving more than twice the speed limit. Jerrod decelerated quickly and passed the Sheriff without incident. “Whew, dodged another bullet,” he said to himself.

Aaron, the driver who’d signaled Jerrod to slow down, had seen him ‘flying’ down the road and, knowing him, was probably drunk again. He deliberately flashed a warning.

Days later, Aaron sat alone when his daughter, Carrie, got home, her beautiful smile and warm heart reminded him of his late wife. He missed her so, why did she have to die?

Carrie (17) was now the center of his world. He cherished the memories of years gone by, but she’d always be ‘Daddy’s little girl.’ But oh, how she was growing up too fast!

They spoke briefly, before she hugged him, and kissed Aaron goodnight. She headed for bed, then stopped to say, “I saw a friend of yours today. He said to tell you thanks for flashing your lights. He was going too fast, so he slowed way down. He’d been drinking - that would’ve been his third DWI. He’d be sitting in jail if not for your warning.”

Months later, Jerrod wasn’t speeding or weaving. But when he crested the hill, a crowd of people stood in front of him. He tried to stop. But his reflexes were too slow, too inebriated to react correctly.

By the time the police arrived, Jerrod sat on the side of the road holding his knees, rocking. When he looked up, he saw Aaron talking to the Sheriff. His knees buckled as a river of tears burst from his eyes. He pleaded in vain, “Please don’t tell me it’s not true.”

The Officer pointed at a disheveled Aaron wasted on the curb. He’s the one who caused the fatal accident, and we believe alcohol was a factor. 

Her last words were, “Tell Daddy I love him.”

Aaron got off easy. He served fifteen years in state prison charged with DWI, assault with a deadly weapon, and involuntary manslaughter.

Jerrod’s nightmare will never end. He longs to just once more hear her coming in the door! From Heaven above her voice still echoes: “Dad, trust the law to do its job. Please drive safely, so that everyone’s precious children get home safely.”

Father God, we pray for those addicted to alcohol and find themselves behind the wheel while under its influence. We ask for Your intervention, that You touch their hearts and give them the strength to overcome this destructive habit. Amen

Restored

 “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion." ~ Philippians 1:6

No one could see what Jackson saw in that old, dilapidated house. It mirrored his own life’s shambles – unemployed, divorced, PTSD.

He saw potential, they couldn’t see past its fractured appearance. They saw rotted siding, chipped paint, falling gutters, and a leaky roof. He envisioned the builder’s original intent – and what that house could be one day with a little work.

Jackson stepped into the run-down home that’d once been a stunning place for a family to live safely. Over time, through neglect and the city’s systemic downfall, it’d fallen into disrepair: filthy, repulsive, and dangerous.

She had some issues but was entitled to them given her decades of decay.

Passerby couldn’t fathom why Jackson worked so hard replacing the roof, windows, and doors. Or why he bothered to sand down the chipped paint.

Despite splinters and muscle strains, he couldn’t stop. The house constantly asked for more – more of his time, money, and energy. He sacrificed hundreds of weekends at the altar of restoration, with endless to-do lists and a love-hate relationship that was addictively alluring.

But he labored on. Jackson knew something others didn’t. He knew how the house had been built and what it was meant to be… because he’d built it.

Restoring it to its original glory reversed the mirror back at him, reflecting new perspectives that he hadn’t considered before: the value of time and money, the importance placed on things new and “improved,” and finally how humble it made him feel.

During its tenure, six families had called it home, filling closets and drawers with their heirlooms, beliefs, and sentiments. Many of those treasures were tender, motivating, and joyful. But there was also clutter metaphorically accrued in their hearts’ darkest spaces - disappointments, regrets, and self-doubt, that robbed them of happiness and purpose in their lives.

It took years, one could even say a lifetime, but eventually, others saw it too. No one recognized the elegant mansion that now replaced the abandoned house. There’s something about being human that longs for, and delights in, seeing something restored.

In the process, he’d learned more about himself and life than he had about replacing gutters.

Upon reflection, Jackson marveled at the comparison between the process of restoring an old house to God's work in his own life. One of the most important considerations in restoration is that as much as possible of the original material must be preserved.

The story reveals how the chaos of rebuilding can result in a beautiful masterpiece, similar to how God can restore a broken person with joy and peace. This points to the redeeming miracles of God’s work as only He can make a broken, ugly world beautiful and whole again.

Lord Almighty, as we navigate the uncertainty of our country’s future, renew our trust that You have a plan for us that brings restoration and renewal in ways that exceed our imagination. Remind us that You are the God of restoration. Amen

Our Daily Bread

 “Give us the bread we need today." ~ Matthew 6:11

The 36-year-old Salvadoran left Mexico’s Pacific coast in a small boat accompanied by a much younger crewmate. An experienced sailor and fisherman, he expected 30 hours of deep-sea fishing, hoping to bring back a lucrative haul of sharks, marlins, and sailfish. The 24-foot open fiberglass boat had a single outboard motor, rudimentary electronics, and a large icebox for storing fish.

Shortly after departing, they were blown off course by a ferocious, weeklong storm that damaged the motor and emergency radio beyond repair. They were forced to dump the fish they’d caught to make the vessel more maneuverable. They also lost almost all of their fishing gear, leaving them with only a handful of basic supplies and little food.

Without sails, oars, an anchor, running lights, or any other way to contact shore, the boat drifted westward across the open ocean. Local authorities called off the search after two days, citing heavy fog and extreme weather.

Their maritime diet initially consisted mainly of raw fish, turtle blood, and small birds (fresh meat helps prevent scurvy). To quench their thirst, they drank rainwater and urine.

Spending most of his life at sea, José Alvarenga was used to a seafood diet and the harsh salty air. His 22-year-old companion was not. Four months into their oceanic odyssey, he became ill, stopped eating, and eventually died from starvation.

Floating across the unforgiving ocean for over a year, he battled loneliness, depression, and thoughts of suicide. But surviving the planet’s largest ecosystem, vivid hallucinations, and extreme solitude did little to prepare him for the fact that he would soon become an international celebrity and an object of curiosity.

After 438 days adrift, covering about 6,000 miles, his excursion ended ten years ago tomorrow. By the time he was rescued, José was in surprisingly good health, except for dehydration, anemia, and aquaphobia.

Alvarenga's journey reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith, even in the direst circumstances. When asked if he’d learned anything from his ordeal, he replied: “I’ve learned that if I can have enough food to eat and fresh water to drink, I will be deliriously happy for the rest of my life.”

When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, He had them ask only for “daily bread.” He didn’t have them ask for luxuries, property, or lavish meals. He didn’t have them ask for protection or for all of their future needs to be met. He had them ask for the spiritual sustenance that only God could give.

But we can only receive it when we open ourselves to it. Jesus knew that constantly caring about ‘things’ and worrying about our future would only separate us from God and love. Only God knows our genuine needs better than we do.

“Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Help us avoid earthly temptations and protect us from evil. For Thine is the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory, forever.” Amen

Age Is a Gift

 “Though our bodies grow older, our spirits are being renewed daily." ~ 2 Corinthians 4:16

The phrase "Age is just a number" suggests that the number of years a person has lived doesn't define who they are or what they can accomplish; our only limitations are those we set for ourselves. While a positive attitude can help, we all need to accept the changes that come with age and plan for how to make our aging excursion as healthy and productive as possible.

Take Jonathon, the world’s oldest living land animal, for example. Estimated to have been born around 1832, this giant tortoise lived before the invention of the telegraph. He’s lived during all but six U.S. presidencies. Up to 400 land vertebrate species have gone extinct during their lifespan.

Jonathon arrived at the small, tropical island of St. Helena at about age 50. He’s strolled and foraged the gardens of Plantation House, the governor's current, and Napolean’s final, residence, ever since.

Over time, Jonathan lost his sense of sight and smell, making it difficult to find food which led to malnutrition. A few years ago, the island’s head veterinarian began treating him with a new diet and exceptional care.

The adjustments were life changing. He’s now hand-fed once a week with a fortifying helping of fruit and vegetables. He enjoys the attention of a small group of devoted volunteers, who report that the reptile shows no signs of slowing down and remains vibrantly healthy.

On mild days, he sunbathes. Cooler weather sends Jonathon digging himself into leaf or grass compost. He also enjoys eating and dalliances with his girlfriend, Emma.

He’s regained his stamina. With no scale capable of weighing him on the island, his exact weight is unknown but estimated at between 300 and 450 pounds. Young tourists are no longer allowed to ride atop his shell.

It’s phenomenal that this gentle giant has outlived every other living creature on earth, including the entire human race. All indications point to Jonathan reaching into a third century.

Despite society’s negative attitude about aging in general, and stereotyping older adults as feeble and insignificant, many elders thrive despite their years and the barrage of pharmaceutical ads.

Some people are fortunate to have the healthy genetics of 90-year-old parents.

But, almost without exception, successful agers effectively manage the aging process by how they live. They build and retain strong social connections with family and community. They tend to avoid things that can damage health. They move their bodies regularly, at least a little.

Those who recognize the reality of their situation don’t proclaim that their age is “just a number” but rather something they acknowledge, respect, and work to slow and manage.

A cheerful outlook doesn’t hurt either.

"Dear Lord, as I enter the later stages of my life, present myself humbly to You, asking for your guidance and protection. My body, stamina, and mind are changing. I need Your help to stay healthy, strong, and spiritually grounded. Amen

One Nation Under God

 “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." ~ Psalm 33:12

It's not part of the Constitution, nor does it establish a state religion. It wasn’t originally even a product of government legislation. By all accounts, it was a marketing gimmick by a clever sloganeer to sell more U.S. flags.

Before classes began on the morning of October 21, 1892, children at schools across the country rose to their feet, faced a newly installed American flag, and, for the first time, recited these 22 words written by a man few people knew.

"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

It was hastily written in 1892 by Baptist Minister Francis Bellamy, an advertising salesman for the “The Youth’s Companion,” (1827–1929), America’s largest children’s magazine. Its early issues encouraged "virtue and piety,” and warned against “the ways of transgression".

The Companion offered U.S. flags as a marketing promotion to readers who sold subscriptions. With the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ arrival in the New World approaching, the weekly sought to raise the U.S. flag in every classroom across the Nation.

Bellamy launched into his mission with evangelical passion. To induce schools to purchase Old Glory, he proposed his “Pledge of Allegiance” be recited by all students at the start of every day.

The gimmick worked.

On October 21, 1892, millions of kids kickstarted their day by reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance.” They stood erect giving the traditional Roman salute. The magazine sold thousands more flags.

By the 1920s, Italian Fascists and later German Nazis embraced the same Roman salute, but with more menacing intent. So, when the U.S. entered World War II, Congress amended the Flag Code to require the “Pledge” be recited by facing the flag with the right hand over the heart.

In response to the Communist threat, President Eisenhower in 1954 encouraged Congress to add the words "under God" as it reads today:

"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

The additional two words were added to “reaffirm America's transcendence of religious faith in America’s heritage and future” and “strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country’s most powerful resource in peace and war.”

Today, all but three states (Wyoming, Vermont, and Hawaii) require the “Pledge of Allegiance” be recited in public schools, with varying exemptions for students or staff who wish to opt out.

Despite Monday’s national holiday being overshadowed by the President’s Inauguration, we must never forget the life, leadership, and inspiration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Raised in a family of faith, he strived to be a minister of God’s Word. Dr. King believed that love, even love of enemies, was the only way to achieve victory over hate, violence, and injustice.

Father God, help us remain hopeful and optimistic about our country’s future. Guide our leaders with faith, generosity, wisdom, and courage. God Bless the USA! Amen

Saints as Sinners

 “God blesses those who endure temptation and persecution." ~ James 1:12

Genesius, a gifted actor, comedian, and writer, was also the troupe's leader. Yet acting in early Roman society wasn’t a respectable career; its status was similar to that of a slave or pagan laborer. The group rarely performed the original Greek and Roman dramas.

Ancient Roman comedy was boisterous, crude, and offensive. But the cunning performer had a plan that might land him a position at the Imperial Palace.

Emperor Diocletian planned to visit Rome in the summer of 303 to celebrate his twenty years as Rome’s sovereign leader. Various cultural events were being organized for his visit. Given the Emperor’s hatred of Christians, a satire mocking Christianity performed during the jubilee might amuse the emperor and win Genesius notoriety and favor with other nobles.

For research, he presented himself as a catechumen (person seeking faith instruction before baptism and admission to the Catholic Church). Genesius sought material to use for his play but had no plans of converting to Christianity.

During his months of training, Genesius chose to make Baptism the subject of his irreverent play. He planned to mock the claim that baptism washed away sin and invited those baptized into a new life in Christ! When he’d done enough study, he left the membership training.

The farcical play began after Emperor Diocletian took his seat in the Imperial Box. Genesius cast himself in the role of a bedridden man screaming to be baptized. As the play grew more extreme, an actor priest entered the stage to “baptize” the ailing catechumen.

Then something miraculous happened. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Genesius arose from his bed and began to profess his faith in Christ:

“I hoped to please an earthly Emperor but instead I will praise a heavenly King. I came here to give you humor, but I will praise God and bring joy to His angels. I will never mock these great mysteries again.

Jesus Christ is the only true God, the Light, the Truth, and the Mercy of all who receive His gift of baptism.”

Genesius was arrested immediately and urged to recant his claims. Despite being beaten, racked, slashed, and burned, he remained faithful. After immense suffering, he was condemned to death and publicly beheaded.

Legend claims that his final words were, “Our Lord Jesus Christ is God. We shall have life in His name.” Through his martyrdom, he’s considered to have been “baptized by blood.”

A similar transformation takes place in every Christian. Jesus teaches that we must die to live. St. Genesius’ conversion shows that it’s never too late to turn to God and embrace Christianity. His courage is an inspiration to boldly witness our faith. His actions remind us that joy and laughter can be powerful evangelization tools.

Saint Genesius, Patron Saint of theatrical performers, we ask for your intercession as we seek to use our talents to bring joy and motivation to others. Grant us the courage to remain true to our faith, even in the face of persecution. Amen