One Way

This morning in my Bible time, I read the book of Haggai. It's a short book, only two chapters, and one of the last three books in the Old Testament. But wow, does this little book pack a punch!! So here's the thing, as I've been reading through the prophets this year, there's one thing they all seem to have in common - pronouncement of judgement. Big time. Either judgment of Israel, Judah, or one of the kingdoms or countries nearby. And from what I've gathered, most of the time when these prophets shared God's word, the people didn't listen. And here's where the book of Haggai is different. The following takes place around 520 BC. The temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed in 586 BC, but in 538 BC, King Cyrus of Babylon allowed the Jews to return home to rebuild it. I can only imagine their joy in returning to the city, ready and willing to get to work! They were going to rebuild the temple! Yay! But as the years go by, their passion for th...

I'M HOME!!!!!!!! Ahh, it's good to be back among family, friends, and familiarity! The initial transition was difficult for a few days, combination of jet-lag, re-entry stress, and a family vacation (which makes it hard to get back into the swing of things), but the past few weeks have gradually been getting better. There's still a lot going on, and I have ways to go to get back to feeling on top of things...but it's probably better this way. :) When I am weak, He is strong. The view coming in over Ghana! A lot of people have said this to me - "How was your trip? Was it wonderful?" And each time, I'm sure they wonder why I make this little face, and say, "Uh, well..." Honestly, guys, it was THE hardest thing I've had to face in my life to this point. It was not wonderful, it was not amazing, and it wasn't even always "fun", and I struggled a lot - BUT...it was good. It was one of those experiences where you learn so m...