When I was a kid, Halloween was always a special time that wasn't at all about witchcraft, spirits, and dark demonic forces looming about wanting to cause havoc in my hometown. The whole family would get together at my Aunt Kathy's and we would roam the neighborhood gathering treats for as long as our parents... Continue Reading →
In a world often marked by self-interest, selfishness, and division, the timeless tale of the Good Samaritan offers a beacon of hope in humanity. It transcends religious boundaries, resonating deeply with values of compassion, empathy, and self-sacrifice. It challenges us to look past societal prejudices, and extend a helping hand to those in need, regardless... Continue Reading →
When I was a child, my grandparents had a rose bush next to the front porch. The carpenter bees would chase smaller insects and flies away, defending the nest; but even went after larger objects like me for instance. I was terrified of them. Sometimes they would hover near my face, and zip past me.... Continue Reading →
For the past few weeks I have been teaching Tactics in Defending the Faith by Greg Kokul of Stand to Reason to the men at a Bible study I attend on Tuesday mornings. It has been really cool watching the men get into it and be engaged in conversation about how to use these tactics... Continue Reading →
The begining of the outdoor evangelism season is always rough to get started. I suppose that it would be great to have conversations on the street throughout the whole year would be great. But, since I live in Iowa, that's just not the case. At the begining of the year, Kasin and I went downtown... Continue Reading →
This year went very well for the IowaGO! booth at the Iowa State Fair. Many of us had great conversations with those who entered, and felt engaged with those who visited with the booth. This year we had many new evangelists. Very proud of the four from my fellowship that attended for the first time.... Continue Reading →
As I drove down a quiet street yesterday afternoon on my way to mow a friend's lawn, something caught my eye: a vacuum cleaner sitting at the edge of the road, awaiting its fate with the garbage truck. It looked very old and worn, like it had seen better days. The front where the roller... Continue Reading →
Introduction Like most puritan writings, Keeping the Heart by John Flavel is a profound exploration of the spiritual and emotional practices necessary for maintaining a pure heart amidst life's various trials and tribulations. Written in the 17th century, Flavel's work remains relevant today, offering timeless wisdom on the importance of inner purity and the condition... Continue Reading →
Last night Paul and I went to the Marshalltown, Iowa Octemberfest to share the gospel to those at the festival. The weather was amazing for a late September and we never had to wear jackets the entire time. Because of the weather, the streets were packed with people, classic cars, rides, and food vendors as... Continue Reading →
It's hard to believe it's been 23 years since that day this country stopped and gazed upward and on our television sets watching thousands die from multiple attacks on our country. I had just moved to Iowa with my fiancé in June with the hope of starting a new life together in a much more... Continue Reading →
Pens & Wrenches 