A Debt of Gratitude

Debt in America continues to be a growing phenomenon. Mortgages, cars, student loans, credit cards, and discretionary purchases have surged, similar to the times just before the greatest financial crisis. It seems as if a large percentage of the U.S. population lives in debt, but that is nothing new. The concept of owing and repaying … Read more

What in the World Is Going On?

When one observes the assortment of news that comes at us each day from all sides, especially in recent weeks, one may wonder, What in the world is going on? Is the world about to spin out of control? Are we approaching the end of time? Are the events we are witnessing a precursor to … Read more

God’s Enduring Presence in the Church

The omnipresence of God throughout the history of humanity and in the life of the church is the overarching theological theme that has led the church over the years. All human leaders come and go, whether it was Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Peter, Paul, James, or John in the Bible, or any leader of our time, … Read more

Reflections and Forecasting

The 73rd Psalm begins with the statement, “Truly, God is good to Israel, to such that are pure in heart” (NKJV). As we reflect on the year 2016 and how God has led us through turmoil, distress, and fears, through hills and valleys, hopes and hopelessness, we can truly say that God has been good … Read more

Stay Focused on the Mission

In just a few weeks 2016 will be history. It will be a year to remember for many people because of a number of reasons. However, it is important to remember that with each new moment, each new day, and each new year comes the unknown with its challenges, opportunities, joys, sorrows, and a host … Read more

A Culture of Thanksgiving

We are living in a world where self and selfishness has taken center stage. Mankind would rather look to themselves for answers rather than look to God, not realizing that all good things come from God. As the Source of everything good and wonderful, it is incumbent upon all of us to ascribe thanksgiving and … Read more

Today, More than Ever!

News broadcasting was never as busy as it is today. Media cannot keep up with the number of catastrophic events happening in the world on a daily basis; and, as you know, not everything is newsworthy. Political violence, social commotions, natural disasters, economic unrest, religious intolerance, global and public health issues, climate changes, and a … Read more

In Praise of Educators

One of the teachers who had a major impact on my daughter’s life was her high school English teacher, Ms. Wright*. She was young, involved, and very interested in making sure her students did well. Ms. Wright was impressed with Aiyana’s writing and her commitment to her studies. She shared with me on several occasions … Read more

Change

God never changes — “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever” Hebrews 13:8. In our world we experience changes. This is also true in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. On June 19, 2016, at the Atlantic Union Conference Quinquennial Session in South Lancaster, Massachusetts, we experienced major changes in the elected leadership of our … Read more

The Power of Youth Mentoring

The Atlantic Union Conference union-wide “Finish Faithful” Pathfinder Camporee is now history (see cover story). I, for one, was the recipient of a massive amount of inspiration from more than 3,700 youth, young adults, and adult chaperones congregated at Burlingame State Park in Rhode Island. The experience was a moving expression of thanks to God … Read more