Designed for a Purpose

10 things that will change with the birds back in the nest

No Regrets

No Waiting! Aisle One.
Black Friday. Today millions of shoppers hit the stores, hoping to snag a one-of-a-kind deal for Christmas. Some have stood in lines formed overnight anticipating the 4 a.m. store openings. Yet, you can’t rouse that kind of motivation to get up early. Perhaps for a 10-point buck or a walleye, but not for crowded shopping mall. Nope. Instead, you’ll happily remain at home whi

A Thanksgiving Tribute to my Mother-in-Law
During a holiday where we typically celebrate with those we love and share those things we are grateful for (and direct that thankfulness accordingly, in our case, toward God), I must admit that my focus has been limited to being faced with the truth of my beloved mother-in-law’s seemingly limited time on this earth. Tributes are all too often done AFTER someone departs this earth. I wanted to make sure that I crafted a Thanksgiving Tribute to Peg before she leaves us. I don’t know if she’ll be able to hear this if someone reads it to her but I want her and those around me to know how much I love her and how grateful I am that she’s been such an inspirational wo

The Advice My Dad Never Gave Me
I don’t remember my dad giving me much advice. No long talks. No words of wisdom. When I hear someone say, “My dad always said _________”, I can’t relate. I don’t remember anything my dad “always said.” He was a great man though. My dad was faithful to my mom for thirty-five years…until the day she died. It wasn’t easy for him. She was an alcoholic. When I was 12-years-old, I’d already played football for two years and didn’t want to play a third year. I’m pretty sure my dad was disappointed, but I don’t remember him trying to talk me out of it. He never pressured me to play. It

Dad as Connector – Part 2
In my last post, I shared the impact and importance of connecting with my son as his father by inviting him into my world and getting into his.  I’ve also tried to do the same with my daughters.  It’s been more of a challenge and I’m not sure I’ve succeeded but I can say, I’ve worked at it intentionally. In addition t

The Next Sherwood Movie is Announced…and it is
COURAGEOUS!! In my Partnership director role at FamilyLife, I (Jeff) have had the privilege of working closely with the team that created, directed, produced and promoted the movie, Fireproof.  The integrity of the Hendrick brothers (Stephen and Alex; writers, directors and producers of the movie and pastors