As humans, we think quite highly of our intelligence and how “far above” we are in comparison to plants and other living creatures. But more often than not, other living creatures come along and simply say: “Can you do this?” Take the tent caterpillars as an example. They are constantly hungry and can strip a tree in a day or two. To sustain their voracious appetites, they have developed a...
As Westerners, we have a specific way of thinking: we first take care of ourselves and what is “left” – and usually very little is left after we have our fill – we will share with others. This is the right way – isn’t it? But maybe not. When a Fijian fisherman goes out to fish, the mothers from the village wish him well. He usually returns from his trip to find the mothers waiting on the shore...
When I was in Secondary School, there was one subject in which I was excellent, but only one. (For English, as an example, I could manage a D. But very often when people hear me speak English, they are surprised at how I got a D. Did I bribe the teachers?) I was an A grade student in that subject. Then came the last exam in matric. I got a C. What happened? I mixed-up the answers...
He is a good, good Father. Very good, full of grace and mercy. Steadfast love and faithfulness are the pillars of his throne. He is full of grace and truth. He is known for his love. He is a safe place, a strong tower. He is a Father. He wants a close and intimate relationship with us. We are adopted sons and daughters. We are family of God. But that doesn’t mean He can be manipulated...
[Icon of the forty martyrs] “Consider—you alone of Caesar’s troops defy him! Think of the disgrace you bring upon your legion. How can you do it?” Governor Agricola was speaking to forty soldiers in the 12th Legion of the Roman army who refused to offer sacrifice to the emperor while they were stationed near Sebaste in modern-day Turkey. “To disgrace the name of our Lord Jesus Christ is more...
Remember, it is a theory and not proven facts. The facts are that as science develops, the evolution theory proves to be a more inadequate way to explain the creation of the universe and of life. The complexity of life and a universe that is held together, are more mysterious than ever. Science cannot prove the existence or non-existence of God. Science has no mechanisms to do it. Science cannot...
What values do we transfer and according to which values do we live? You see, what is inside will sooner or later come to the surface. Much of what we do and how we do it, depend on the values we have laid down for ourselves. Living according to those values – provided that they are honourable – gives dignity and deep fulfilment. Katja participated in a cross country bicycle event...
Much of life depends on your perspective on the world around you. Sweeping floors isn’t much of a job – but someone needs to do it. Right? Yes. But if you can only see the broom and the floor, you cannot go to the moon. During a visit to the NASA space center in 1962, President John F. Kennedy noticed a janitor. He interrupted his tour, walked over to the man, and introduced himself...
So many people react according to how they are treated. This is especially true in families but in nearly all spheres of life. Maybe the story of Johnny Lingo will help to bring the truth of this home. Johnny Lingo and the 8 Cow Wife is a fictional story by Patricia McGeir. On an island in the Pacific lived a woman name Sarita (Mahana) who all the other Islanders agreed was quite plain and...
Too often we just want to take the fast-lane and start to pray for our wives. Let God the Holy Spirit first deal with you and your own heart before you pray for your wife Be a godly man. How can you expect your wife to change, to become more godly if you yourself do not live a godly life? How can you anyway pray if you live a life that is not worthy of the gospel, the God to whom you...