Meet It

  In Scripture the definition of faith is as follows: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen . Hebrews 11:1” This same chapter also informs us: “But without faith it is impossible to please him : for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6” Scripture also tells us: “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us : And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him . 1 John 5:14-15” Jesus also instructs us: “And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you . Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:23-24” These are just a few passages of scripture among many that encourage us...

  This past weekend, against my better judgement, I attended a family retreat hosted by my church. As a single, childless person, who recently lost the last semblance of family I had, these retreats are viewed with great trepidation. However, in this case, “trouble [was] greater in anticipation than in reality”. The general theme of the weekend’s presentations was improving communication. Family worship, forgiveness, active listening, among other things, were all addressed. All things applicable to life and general interpersonal relationships. There was one vital aspect of family life that I must observe was overlooked – parent-children communication. This subject is of particular interest to me because, personally, I can see shortcomings in my own life that could have been better handled had I been more open with my parents about certain topics. As is customary at these retreats husbands and wives are brought together to learn about communicating with each other and their childr...