John Woodward

When we lived in southern Ontario, we enjoyed an inspiring treat each spring. We lived on the Niagara peninsula, between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. The hawks that migrate north for the summer pass right over that area. These majestic birds travel up the peninsula because there is a ridge that causes an upward wave…

When our twin sons played soccer for a season in their childhood, they were introduced to team sports. During their stint in junior soccer league, they learned about the game and got a good workout. A first place finish for their team capped an exciting play off. I appreciated how their two coaches accepted the…

The National Registry informs us that many employers have abandoned or forgotten employee retirement account balances. These unclaimed funds belong to former employees, but they aren’t aware of it. Even if they are entitled to such unpaid retirement account money, it won’t benefit them if thy are not aware of it and if they don’t…

I recall the day our neighbors became parents for the second time; they joyfully announced the news of their newborn son’s arrival. To make it even more memorable, the baby came on his dad’s birthday. What a joy to celebrate new life! The theme of new birth takes us back to a famous conversation of…

When we remember the variety of teachers we have had over the years, some stand out as especially helpful, and others rate somewhat lower. Good teachers inspire willing students to learn the required lessons and grow toward their potential. I recall my fourth grade teacher kept a tight reign on the class but helped me…

When a man I had begun to counsel was accused of a crime, he turned himself in to the local police station. “Bill” anticipated signing a document and being released, but instead was arrested and held in the Detention Centre. Having no surety for bail, he remained in custody for two months until his trial.…

Our home base in east Tennessee has the vista of the Great Smoky Mountains. I never tire of seeing their seasonal colors and grandeur. Similarly, the Jewish pilgrims viewed the mountains in Israel, especially Mt. Zion where Jerusalem sits. The psalmist testified, “I will lift up my eyes to the hills–From whence comes my help?…

As the calendar flips over to another year, remember this reality check: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It…