“His third symphony revealed greatness rather than promise.” This was how the concert program introduced Carl August Nielsen, the Danish composer whose symphony we were enjoying.  Rigorous aspirations are crucial to growth, but they also take time and repetition to master. It’s why cellists practice, pilots up their skills on simulators, writers rewrite, doctors pursue […]

Hurricanes arrive long before their arrival. The National Hurricane Center keeps vigil, tracking all threats before they get close. So do the news and weather channels, social media platforms, and every state and county in the path of the storm.  This is called love. It’s those who know caring for the rest of us who […]

We all feature an aspirational side — the vision to be or achieve something. Aspiration adds lift to any endeavor, and often fuels sacrifice. On the flip side, calling suggests a responsibility to do or become something. You’re holding the baton and it’s up to you.  Biblical history overflows with calling. Noah was called to build the ark, which […]

Consider Adam, the very first person. He was perfect, lived in Paradise, and enjoyed limitless opportunity. He had authority, creative freedom, and a face-to-face friendship with the Creator of the universe.  Imagine having a face-to-face friendship with God! Going for walks, discussing ideas, and even asking questions about the complexities of Creation. Please explain the science […]

My friends and I used to crouch beside my dad’s giant Wharfedale speakers, ears poised to catch every nuance of the music. Compared to our transistor radios, those speakers were like being on stage. That’s why I remember hearing Johnny Cash perform San Quentin live, right there at the prison. The song was a diatribe, and the […]