Freedom vs. Responsibility

In today’s climate, there is much discussion centering around the perception that our freedoms, which many undoubtedly take for granted, are slowly but surely being taken away. Is that really the case, or is there a disconnect between my right to enjoy my freedoms and my obligation to my neighbor (as a Christ follower) to …

“Miss” Joyce

Not all adoptions are created equal, and our son Philip’s story is an exceptional one. Suffice it to say here, that we would have never had the privilege of knowing Miss Joyce had Philip not come into our family. Miss Joyce departed her earthly home early this morning, July 1st, for her heavenly one. Philip …

A Beginning, An Ending, and Another Beginning – Our Adoption Story

June 5th, 2020. Today, had he lived, Russell would have been 38 years old. The day was June 5th, 1982; we had a new baby, a new member of the Simon family; a new beginning. I delivered our third son early on a bright, sunny Saturday morning. The “Smurfs” cartoon was playing on television, it …

Look at All the Susans on the Table!!!

Before Harold and I married, his mother would often invite me to their home for Sunday lunch. Mrs. Simon (I never could call her Mildred; I just couldn’t!) was an excellent cook and she would serve a main course and several side dishes with every meal. Harold had some MAJOR adjusting to do when we …

God’s Provision

Today I read a devotion by Lysa Terkeurst and realized something about myself; something that wasn’t pretty. I don’t always want what God provides. I want more, or something different, or I just don’t like what He chooses to provide at all. Yahweh-Yireh (Jehovah Jireh), is the name of God meaning “God will provide.” I …

God’s Peace and His Presence

There have been a few times in my life when the overwhelming presence and peace of God filled my heart. On April 8th of this year I experienced this, and as only the Lord can do, the experience was uniquely tailored to my circumstances. First of all, you need to know what April 8th means …