Wild Grapevine (Photo credit: bill barber)

For many years a wild grapevine flourished in the corner of the yard. It climbed up every tree, shrub, hedge and fence it could reach. But strangling the greenery in its own yard eventually wasn’t enough. It began to cross into the neighbour’s backyard. It climbed on the hedge, tangled in unwanted Manitoba maple trees and finally overpowered the red cherry tree nearby the fence line. Neighbour finally noticed it high in the cherry tree. It entangled the leaves and branches with such vigour that Neighbour could not pull it out of the tree. So Neighbour followed the stem of the invading plant, but found the roots far onto the next lot, beyond reach. So Neighbour trimmed and pulled the best that was possible, but year after year the grapevine returned. If only Neighbour’s neighbour cared enough to dig out the offending plant!

Today is special. Although it all started a little longer ago than this, it officially began 35 years ago on this date, at noon. Read more…

Even though I was never found guilty of any crime or breach of promise, the powers-that-be deprive me of my ability to serve God as an ordained minister. That’s another story. But the statement I gave when ordained on May 30, 1987 remains as true for me today as then.

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So, what does it really mean for Jesus to say, “Those who want to come with me must say no to the things they want, pick up their crosses every day, and follow me” (Luke 9:23 God’s Word)?
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It is very hard to think of blessings from God when people, especially those who claim to be Christian, treat you hatefully. But the historical reality stares us in the face. Religious people have always hated and abused those who serve God without compromise.
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