Day 12 When I first read Paul’s phrase, longsuffering with joy (Col. 1:11), I thought, “Well we can’t use this one with children!” With these words Paul has painted a portrait of a person who waited long enough for burdens to turn into glory.  He speaks of a prayer for the long haul of life.  My oldest daughter … Read more

Day 11 We often laugh about the trials that come when we pray “for all patience” (Col. 1:11). The word itself seems a definite contradiction in terms for the child or teen who can’t wait to grow up. The kind of patience Paul prays for here is patience with people, the capacity to get along with difficult … Read more

Day 10 The Congressman walked confidently up the ramp to the stage and tossed his cane into the crowd, his message beginning even before he spoke. Two robotic metal legs were proudly displayed beneath gray wool shorts, and I could not stop staring at the marvel of this man’s energy and fitness under such circumstances.  Within … Read more

Day 9 Dr. Bill Bright, founder of Campus Crusade, taught, “We can trace all our human problems to an inaccurate view of God.” He spent years writing a series called Discover God, which he left behind as a free gift to all on the internet (www.discovergod.com). I have taught his material many times and can tell you … Read more

Day 8 Paul’s next exhortation is to be fruitful in every good work. (Col. 1:10) Because every child is unique in personality, intelligence, and abilities, every child can be pronounced “fruitful” in the personal plan and purpose God has for their life.   What would you say the odds are that a child diagnosed with autism, generalized … Read more

Day 7 I can relate to the mother of James and John when she whispered in the ear of Jesus, “In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.” (Matt 20:20-21) Can you imagine such boldness? Yes, we can. We mean … Read more