

Life's Treasures
“Wow! That’s a really long line! I sure hope it moves fast.” I assured my husband that on our first visit to London we weren’t going to worry about time and lines. We wanted to see the Crown Jewels! And then… there they were… in all of their splendor: crowns, scepters, plates, goblets and other royal regalia! All safely behind bombproof glass. Obviously these were “treasured” treasures! *** I have things I treasure. Oh they’re not even close to the monetary value of what we v


Valuing the Least
“What’s the movie we’re watching, Mrs. V?” I hesitated giving the title, especially with my teacher friend’s comment ringing in my ears: “You’re showing that? A musical? Good luck!” Reminding the eight grade students that we’d been studying Romeo and Juliet, I bravely announced, “It’s called West Side Story.” “Oh, I love that movie! It’s my dad’s all-time favorite. He watches it a lot. I know all the songs!” I thought to myself: "Really? You know all of the songs. You? One of


Close Enough
“So, let’s go to the 10:00 service instead of the early one.” “No, Mom! Don’t make us!” “What’s wrong with that service?” “Look at the church sign. It doesn’t get over until 12:00. We don’t want to go to a two-hour service on vacation… or ever!” I scanned the white board in front of the church. Sure enough there it was: “Finnish service 12:00” It was just one letter off, but that sign took on a whole new meaning for our three young ones. Thankfully we did “finish” the 10:00 s


Tests and Anxiety
“I’m calling to let you know we have the results of your test. There is no sign of cancer.” I breathed out a quiet sigh that felt like I had been holding in forever. After more than a month of detailed medical screenings, those anxious thoughts tapping on my shoulder, I knew I would always honor prayer requests from people undergoing tests. Tests are crucial in the medical field. Other tests are important to the health of an organization or company. Our reputation depends on