Your Neighborhood, Alive

By Janel Breitenstein | November 22, 2017 | 2 Comments

Returning from work in Africa can be a little unnerving. In some ways, it’s the same, because a great deal of missionary work is not nearly as sexy as it sounds. I was still running after kids, still buying groceries, still feeding the dog. Everything had about three extra steps, but they were not usually […]

Read More

It’s Not Your Problem … It’s Ours

By Janel Breitenstein | November 8, 2017 | 0 Comments

Allow me to tell you the story of a friend of mine, because her story’s stuck with me. I’ll call her Susan. Susan has a couple of daughters. They’re grown now–but back in the day, she was ready to pull them out of their public school and opt for private: Their public school was performing […]

Read More

My Home is His Home

By Barbara Rainey | October 18, 2017 | 2 Comments

All the world belongs to God. I know because the Old Testament contains an interesting collection of verses that all repeat a strong possessive word. The word is MINE! “Every beast of the forest in MINE, and the cattle on a thousand hills.” -Psalm 50:10 “If I were hungry, I would not tell you, for […]

Read More

3 Ways to Be Front-Yard Friendly

By Barbara Rainey | August 14, 2017 | 3 Comments

While some days it’s hard to focus on the eternal and invisible, it’s more important than ever to root ourselves in a security that will last forever. A popular ad for a leading hotel chain used to say, “We’ll leave the light on for you,” reminding travelers that any time of day or night the […]

Read More

3 Ways to Use Your Home for Influence

By Barbara Rainey | June 19, 2017 | 13 Comments

When was the last time you hosted a gathering in your home? I know. The kids have a trail of creative debris strewn throughout the house and you’re never sure when something may go wrong. Opening up your home feels daunting. And sure, the church and community buildings have plenty of meeting space. Restaurants are easier than […]

Read More