HCA Blog

The past seven weeks have pushed me beyond my comfort level in many ways. When I pause and reflect, I am not overwhelmed with anxiety or remorse. Rather, I am encouraged and excited that despite my failures God is still calling me to be used by Him and through His Holy Spirit.

Five years ago, as we stepped into the unknown with joy, I wrote:
“Can I stand now and clap, or is the crescendo to be when we arrive?”

Now, with deep gratitude, I find myself clapping still—not because the story is over, but because God continues to compose something beautiful.

I don’t remember being born. I don’t think many people do, but I know the date—June 10, 1976.

A quick search tells me that Tim Kneale won the 49th National Spelling Bee that day with the word narcolepsy (a skill that, unfortunately, did not transfer to my own spelling abilities). The number one song was Paul McCartney and Wings’ Silly Love Songs.

Based on insights from John Certalic (Episode 98 of “You Were Made for This”)

We’ve all heard the phrase, “It never hurts to ask.” It’s often used to encourage boldness, persistence, and the belief that if you don’t ask, you don’t receive. But is that really true?

We have had a decent winter—one that we take some pride in complaining about. Of course, those who have seen the winters of old will remind us that this was nothing in comparison. Nonetheless, we are closing the books on another season, and spring fever is beginning to emerge upon our pale brows.

When I was 19, I started working at Curries Door and Frame Manufacturing. One of my jobs was running a sheet metal brake. Working third shift, I spent eight hours pulling sheet after sheet of metal, bending each to spec, tagging it, and stacking it on a pallet for the next stage of production.

The simple reality is this: when I am accomplishing great things…let’s stop right there. Great things in my life will lead to great falls if I do not first recognize that, in my weakness, I am truly weak. I must learn and be reminded that what I do and what is accomplished through me is simply of the Lord.

In 1974, the Nixon administration implemented “The National Maximum Speed Limit” of 55 mph on all interstate roads. This was primarily in response to the national oil crisis, with the hope that the limitation would conserve fuel.

There is therefore now. No condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit — Romans 8:1