Author: jmarkfox

January 17, 2011 I said “goodbye for now” to a dear friend a few days ago. Satherine was a charter member of Antioch Church, a faithful friend of our family, and like a grandmother to my children, never forgetting their birthdays, always interested in their lives. Cindy and I had the distinct privilege of traveling … Continue reading Farewell, Satherine — for now

January 10, 2011 God is wringing his hands, pacing heaven, mumbling to himself, his brow wrinkled with concern, beads of sweat gathering on his forehead, eyes shifting as he shuffles. The angels have never seen him like this and want to help without becoming a nuisance. Gabriel summons his courage and asks, “Lord? Is there … Continue reading End of days will come in the time that God chooses

January 3, 2011 In juxtaposition to all of the stories we have read this week that heralded the top events of 2010, I would like to look forward instead, and offer five suggestions fora happier and healthier new year. 1. Read the Bible with a plan. Those who read a Bible without a plan often … Continue reading Top five suggestions for a happy new year

December 29, 2010 One of my favorite Christmas stories took place in the ’60s and was written about in the “Baptist Herald.” Here’s an edited version of Dina Donahue’s “Trouble at the Inn.” For many years now, whenever Christmas pageants are talked about in a certain Midwest town, someone mentions the name of Wallace Purling. … Continue reading Trouble at the inn

December 20, 2010 During this time of the year, when my favorite foods are so plentiful, I can go on a sweet-eating binge as fast as you can say “homemade fudge.” Which brings up the question I ask my wife every year: “Why do we need to make fudge?” “It is a Christmas tradition,” she … Continue reading At Christmastime, send your will to the gym

December 14, 2010 It happened a long time ago on the wild frontier. There was no place to hide, no place to run, no sheriff in town who could stop the bloodshed. That’s why the younger brother couldn’t think straight, much less sleep. His older brother was coming to kill him. In a dead panic, … Continue reading When it is time to face God