Spiritual Presents

  My dad was the smartest man in the entire world.  He knew how to answer all of my most difficult questions.  Whenever I asked him challenging questions in life he would wisely respond, "Go ask your mother!" Nothing is quite as wonderful, nurturing, and important as a good mom.  Moms are amazing!  Moms sing us to sleep and cuddle us as babies.  They fix boo-boos and read stories when we are toddlers.  Moms correct and challenge us as teenagers.  They encourage us and pass on wisdom as we age.  Moms are not perfect, but can know more than most the importance of sacrificial love. There was no greater example of motherhood than Jesus' mother, Mary.  She understood that her relationship with her children (especially Jesus) was grounded in her love for God.  She was not perfect, but she knew what all good parents do.  If we want to be a great parent and have a special relationship with our children, then we need to first live o...

  One of the most powerful forms of communication is the language of touch.  In many ways, we learn about the world through touch.  A baby’s tiny digits cup the loving finger of a parent while feeding.  A feathery tickle produces smiles and giggles of joy.  Eskimo and butterfly kisses end the day and start a restful sleep.  Many learn how much we are loved through touch.  Sadly touch can also be used in very harmful and inappropriate ways as well.  We must be extremely wise and cautious when speaking the language of touch.  Hugs are particularly powerful tools of communication.  They express many feelings.  A friendly side hug assures a person they are highly valued.  The back-slapping bro hug conveys great respect.  A big warm bear hug shows sincere care.  Have you ever… Cried in someone’s arms?  Fallen asleep to the rhythm of another’s heartbeat?  Squeezed someone so tight because you did not want them to ...