Baseball often mirrors life

  Baseball, often called America’s pastime, has captured the hearts and imaginations of many for over a century. It is a sport that resonates deeply with people worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries and bringing communities together. But why does baseball hold such a special place in our hearts? The answer lies in how much baseball mirrors life itself. From its timeless traditions to moments of triumph and adversity, baseball serves as…

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How to stay motivated as we journey on

Introduction: In life’s journey, it is natural for us to face challenges, obstacles, and moments of discouragement that can often dampen our spirits. However, as Christians, we have a unique source of motivation and inspiration to draw upon. Our faith in God gives us the strength, hope, and purpose necessary to stay motivated throughout life’s ups and downs. This article explores fundamental principles and perspectives from a Christian standpoint that…

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I Come To The Garden Alone

After celebrating Passover with his disciples, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He took with Him Peter, James, and John.  Jesus was filled with sorrow and was overwhelmed with what was awaiting Him.  He asked His friends to keep watch with Him. The picture from the garden is quite dramatic:  He is praying to the Father with His face to the ground.  His Prayer?  “Father, if it…

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Road Construction Ahead!

Mrs. Blake and I are preparing for our twice-yearly migration pattern: south to north in five weeks and then north to south at the end of summer. This will be our first entire cycle of migration.  One thing you always see when driving the highways is ubiquitous “orange barrels.”  They seem to sprout up like tulips this time of year.  We like the finished project and the accompanying improvements, but…

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Life Lessons learned from jig-saw puzzles!

One of the things that Susanne and I  have taken up in our early retirement days is putting jigsaw puzzles together.  Before retiring, the last time I worked on a puzzle was in my pre-school days.  I had no interest whatsoever in putting a puzzle together.  Susanne, likewise, was a puzzle assembly novice.  When we spent a few weeks last summer in the Chicago area, we decided to ‘do a…

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Transformation Living: the List and the Lesson

As a lifelong rule-follower and list maker, this passage from the book of 2 Peter has always intrigued me. 5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from…

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Is Quitting an option?

I must admit there have been times when I wanted to quit.   If you look in certain places in our homes, you will find some discarded items that were once part of something we thought we would enjoy and master: musical instruments, sports equipment, and a host of hobby paraphernalia.   Is it appropriate at times to quit?  I have heard all the cliches regarding giving up on something:…

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Four Reminders I Need Daily

How often do I need reminders?  Daily and often!  There is a tendency to forget things.  I am not just talking about keys and notes. Much time is spent looking for misplaced items and remembering what we promised.  There are many devices and suggestions to aid us in remembering important things.  Nothing is more significant than our relationship with the Lord.  I came across a verse from Psalm 143.  Immediately…

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