The Darkest Days

For he has not despised or scorned the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help (Ps 22:24).

In Oklahoma, we usually have a deep cold snap about this time of year. It was right on time this year, and it’s so deep and long it’s breaking records. In fact, we’re still in the middle of it. As someone who suffers from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), I’m worn out by time February comes along. January drags, but the dreary, gray days of February take their toll as winter tightens its grip before finally giving way to spring.

During cold, dismal February, grief feels like it’s compounded. Not only are we dealing with a stretch of eleven days without sunshine (or maybe thirteen—but who’s counting?), but we’re also still dealing with the impact of the global pandemic. Continue reading “The Darkest Days”

Praise Him with a Thankful Heart

This post was originally published on November 16, 2017.

“Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods” (Ps 95:2-3).

Each weekend, I gather with other believers to participate in our praise and worship service at church. On a few occasions, I’ve gone to special services that have been set up outside of the traditional service times and are just music and songs. I enjoy both traditional and contemporary music. Years ago, I attended a church with a wonderful blend of both old and new songs. There’s something to be said for traditional songs that were borne out of hardship and persecution. But I believe contemporary songs that built upon Scripture help reinforce God’s word through song have their own place as well. Continue reading “Praise Him with a Thankful Heart”