If ever there was a time in history that the call to holiness for the Christian church was paramount it is the current era in which we live. more

One of my seminary professors, Dr. John Leith, remarked that the single greatest threat to the vitality of the church is amnesia…the failure of the average Christian to remember the most basic content of the Bible. If we want to know more of God and to know God better, we must take time to read God’s word in the Bible. There are many good resources and devotional materials available. A simple way to start is to read one of the Gospels. Matthew begins with Jesus’ birth, shares his ministry and teachings, and concludes with the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. Jesus said, “Learn from me,” (Matthew 11:29), and when we read his words and reflect upon their meaning in the context of his life, we learn what it means to be Christ’s followers. We have time to read a chapter or two from the Bible each day, if we will just do it. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

As we approach Father's Day, it's important to reflect on the profound role fathers play in our lives. This reflection is not just a matter of tradition or sentimentality but is deeply rooted in biblical teachings that outline the significant responsibilities and roles fathers have within their families and communities. The Bible, a timeless guide, offers rich insights into what it means to be a father, highlighting both the spiritual and practical aspects of fatherhood. more

On May 17, my wife and I welcomed our first granddaughter. Baby R weighed in at barely five pounds and had several health challenges since she was born at just 37 weeks. Despite these early issues, we are grateful she is growing stronger and begin-ning to thrive. As it was with the birth of our first grandchild, Baby J, it was love at first sight; well, that is not entirely true; we were in love with our tiny granddaughter even before she arrived but quickly fell even more in love with her when we held her for the first time and could whisper our welcome to her personally. more

Romans 1:26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature... more

Being a part of the continuationist/charismatic church I have been approached with questions about intercession, intercessors and if there is a ministry gift as Intercessor or a spiritual gift of intercession. more

Among the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23 is gentleness. As the Holy Spirit lives in us, these fruit are evident in our daily lives. Check the dictionary and you see that gentleness is defined as being kind, tender, or mild-mannered (as opposed to angry or vengeful). In the Bible gentleness may also be translated meekness (which is not weakness). Gentleness in our actions, attitudes, and words requires controlled strength. Let us follow Paul’s words in Philippians 4:4-5, “Rejoice in the Lord always…Let your gentleness be known to everyone.” The world will be a better place if Christ’s gentle Spirit is evident in each of us. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

One of the hot topics that frequently sparks lively debate within the Christian church is the use of musical instruments during worship. While some denominations hold firm in their belief that only voices should be used to praise God, others embrace a wide range of instruments, from traditional organs and pianos to modern electric guitars and drums. So, what's the deal? Let's dive into the biblical context behind these different perspectives. more

You are not alone if you have forgotten the news from September 20, 2016. Only minutes after we learned Angelina Jolie was filing for divorce from Brad Pitt, an earth-quake hit Los Angeles. CNN jokingly commented, “The two incidents are unrelated.” The family has again been in the news recently as two of the couple’s children decid-ed to drop their father’s last name. more

2 Thessalonians 2:1, 3, & 7  Now, dear brothers and sisters, let us clarify some things about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we will be gathered to meet him... For that day WILL NOT COME until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed—the one who brings destruction... For this lawlessness is already at work secretly, and it will remain secret until the ONE who is holding it back steps out of the way.  more

Have you ever found yourself wondering about Paul, the apostle who wasn’t one of the original twelve disciples? From a strictly objective standpoint, it’s worth asking if Paul would be considered "qualified" to write about and teach the lessons of Christ. After all, the disciples learned from Jesus firsthand during his earthly ministry, while Paul only came into the picture after the crucifixion. more

On Monday, May 20, His Place Christian Academy hosted a joyful and inspiring publishing party to celebrate a significant milestone: 18 of its students have become published authors through a national student publishing program. This momentous occasion marked the culmination of weeks of hard work and creativity by second and third-grade students, who planned, wrote, and illustrated their own books through a free publishing program with Studentreasures Publishing. more

Who is qualified to write about the Bible? Who is qualified to write about the love of Christ? Who is qualified to discuss the debates of the Christian church? Who is qualified to point out that some church rituals are based on church culture and not biblical doctrine? These are the questions I want to explore in today's column. more

Next Monday, the United States will officially observe Memorial Day for the 156th time. There were occasions before May 30, 1868, when citizens in both the North and South paused to honor those who died during the Civil War. By 1890, every Union state offi-cially observed the day. Most Southern states did as well, but on different dates, and their time of remembrance was called Confederate Memorial Day. more

Psalms 50:22 Listen to this, you that ignore me, or I will destroy you, and there will be no one to save you. more

Today I heard about strong storms and tornadoes, and I am grateful lives were spared because people crowded into storm shelters and basements. I am thankful every day for the shelter my home provides me. Shelter is defined as safety from a storm, an enemy, or trouble. Please remember that God is our shelter. Psalm 91:1-2 says, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God and I trust Him.” When troubles come our way, God is our shelter. God will be with us. God’s presence is our refuge providing strength and giving hope. May God bless your day! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

In a remarkable achievement, 18 students from His Place Christian Academy have become published authors through a national student publishing program. As part of this exciting journey, second and third-grade students from the classes of Crystal Verrall and Rhonda Norman planned, wrote, and illustrated their own books through a free publishing program offered by Studentreasures Publishing. The culmination of their creative efforts is titled Fabulous Fictional Fun, a collection that showcases their imaginative storytelling and artistic talents. more

When 15-year-old Amanda Jane Cooper saw Wicked on Broadway, she immediately wanted to play the role of Glinda. She enrolled at Carnegie Mellon University to study theatre. Within months of graduating, she won the role of Glinda in the show’s traveling production. Amid phenomenal success, however, she developed an eating disorder, frequently not eating during the day and binge eating alone in the wee hours of the morning. The struggling actress began carelessly sharing her body with strangers, putting herself in extremely dangerous situations. Though applauded by millions, Cooper hated herself. more

When 15-year-old Amanda Jane Cooper saw Wicked on Broadway, she imme-diately wanted to play the role of Glinda. She enrolled at Carnegie Mellon University to study theatre. Within months of graduating, she won the role of Glinda in the show’s traveling production. Amid phenomenal success, however, she developed an eating disorder, frequently not eating during the day and binge eating alone in the wee hours of the morning. The struggling actress began carelessly sharing her body with strangers, putting herself in extremely dangerous situations. Though applauded by millions, Cooper hated herself. more

Luke 23:32 There were also two others, criminals, led with Him to be put to death. more