Everyday Valentines

“I’m having more irritation and discharge than I expected.” Yesterday, after cataract surgery, I’d called the ophthalmologist’s nurse. I hadn’t met Judy before. ”Have you taken Tylenol, sweetie?” Her endearment put a smile on my face. “Yes, but it’s still painful. Is this pain and discharge normal?” That’s all I needed. “I think so. The doctor is …

Through Danger and Toil

The day has come. Today is the last day of Jerry’s work with the city. For almost thirty years, as both an electrician and a parking meter technician, he has faithfully toiled to serve the people of Urbana. A Valentine’s day, 1990, ice storm injured his back, but it was the accident on July 7, …

Obedient Wrestling

“If I tell Jesus my anger, he’ll throw me out of the room.” The young woman’s tears glistened on her cheeks. During prayer ministry time, I had just encouraged her to be honest with God about how she felt. Her husband had cheated and she’d been downsized. She was furious with her husband, her boss, …