Treasure Chest

Walking has becoming a popular form of exercise these days. What was once a necessity is now a creative fitness adventure! Most enjoy teaming up with a friend for the benefits of conversation, encouragement and safety.   It is no coincidence that the Bible frequently describes the Christian life in terms of walking. For example…

Our daughters enjoyed some gymnastics when they were growing up. The balance beam looked pretty easy from a distance, but when you try to walk, turn and tumble on that narrow beam, balance is a real challenge! No wonder there are mats are around it. Our perspective on the abundant Christian living requires balance too.…

I remember seeing a couple walking to the shore of Lake Ontario with ice skates, eager to enjoy some skating. I was surprised at the sight because I didn’t think there had been enough freezing weather for the ice to be thick enough to skate on. Confidence in the strength of the ice is vital…

The nativity account features this prophetic birth announcement. An angel announced to Joseph, “‘…you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.’ So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child,…

Although our family has not been too caught up in the fitness craze, we did acquire some exercise equipment. But one contraption I have use is a “rebounder”. The would-be athlete can jog in place on this miniature trampoline, rebounding up and down. Evidently this motion has some additional health benefits–stimulating the body’s lymph system.[1]…

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.’ ” (Psalm 91:1,2). These days there are so many threats to our security. Globally, there is…

The Age Old Search Back in 323 B.C. Alexander the Great ruled an empire that stretched from Greece and Egypt in the west to upper India in the east. This man seems to have epitomized the search for significance. Alexander was told by his mother that he was a descendant of Achilles, so he learned…

In Victor Hugo’s “Les Miserables,” the main character had a life-changing experience of forgiveness. After finally being released following 19 years in a chain gang, Jean Valjean stole some silver from a kind bishop who took the risk of offering him hospitality for the night. Valjean was caught and arrested. Instead of condemning the thief,…

The hymn by Henry Van Dyke beautifully expresses the importance of having a merry heart: Joyful, Joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory, Lord of love, Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, Opening to the sun above. Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, Drive the dark of doubt away; Giver of immortal gladness, Fill…

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it” (1 Thess. 5:23,24). Paul’s prayer for personal holiness for believers in 1 Thessalonians 5:23,24 focuses…