Christian Writer Author: Rev. James L. Snyder
Location: Florida , United States
Email: jamessnyder2@att.net
Website: www.jamessnyderministries.com


Christian AuthorRev. James L. Snyder is pastor of the Family of God Fellowship, PO Box 831313, Ocala, FL 34483. He lives with his wife, Martha, in Silver Springs Shores. Call him at 1-866-552-2543 or e-mail jamessnyder2@att.net. His web site is www.jamessnyderministries.com.

I've Written . . .


How To Have An Argument With Yourself And Win  
Christian Article  - Relationships
Fiction: False
Throughout the years, I'm happy to report, I have learned a thing or two about myself. My only regret is I have not learned more than a few things. I could make a long list of things I have not yet learned in life. My hope is, of course, to shorten this list drastically. Presently, I want to zero in on one thing I have learned, which has stood me in good stead for many years; how to have an arg ... Read Christian Article


In My House, If It's Broken I Bought It  
Christian Article  - Relationships
Fiction: False
Often a store has a sign with the warning, "You break it, you bought it." This is to keep people from carelessly handling the merchandise. I'm thinking of another sign, which should be posted all through my house. "If it's broken, I bought it." This is not to say everything in my house is broken, but to point out that everything has a breaking point. And, it's not to say I can't fix anything. I ... Read Christian Article


How To Cash In On Your ‘Ailment Capital'  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Right after the president won his re-election bid for the White House, he made an interesting comment. He said he was going to spend his "political capital" wisely. At first, I did not understand what he was talking about, but then I began to think about it. All his work in getting re-elected won him a certain amount of influence with the people who helped re-elect him. I never thought of it ... Read Christian Article


I'm Not A Christian, But I Play One On Sunday  
Christian Article  - Christianity
Fiction: False
After more than three decades of church ministry, I have come to one unsettling conclusion. Actually, I've come to more than one conclusion, but this one is the most depressing. That conclusion is simply this: all who say they are going to Heaven are not actually on the right path, going in the right direction. Most, of course, have the best intentions, but good intentions don't make up for goi ... Read Christian Article


I Hate My Computer & Other Inspirational Thoughts  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
The New Year has not started out very well for Yours Truly. After the first day of the new year, my life went south for the rest of the winter. All I can say is, I hope it has a wonderful winter, and don't forget to write. Speaking of writing, I can sum up my feelings at this moment by saying, "I hate my computer." Perhaps, you may think the word "hate" a little too strong. Under normal circ ... Read Christian Article


In 2005 Control Is A Remote Possibility  
Christian Article  - Relationships
Fiction: False
One item topping my list of New Year's resolutions could potentially alter my life, as I now know it. And it has to do with my relationship to the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. I'm not inferring any trouble in paradise these days; I wouldn't know if there was trouble, anyway. Nevertheless, I think my relationship to her could improve 100 percent — which needs a foolproof plan. Being a cer ... Read Christian Article


Crow Is Also A Dish Served By Children  
Christian Article  - Relationships
Fiction: False
The traditional fowl of choice of ministers is usually thought to be chicken. This foul thought, however, is a terrible fallacy. Nobody would argue, at least for long, that we have sacrificed millions of chickens through the years at the altar of Christian ministry. Who would think of inviting the parson to supper without serving chicken? Personally, I have had chicken served to me every way ... Read Christian Article


A Cup Of Joe Says A Lot About Us  
Christian Article  - Family
Fiction: False
This week I came face-to-face with a genuine dilemma. I had several meetings across town and for some reason I miscalculated and ended up with a 2-1/2 hour gap between meetings. I hate to waste time, but if I drove back to my office, I would simply have to return to my meeting later and with the cost of gas these days, one cannot be too cautious. You know gas is getting high when it costs more ... Read Christian Article


Go Ahead - Make Dad's Day  
Christian Column  - Family
Fiction: False
Throughout the year, many days of celebration are tucked capriciously into the calendar. So much so, it is hard to find any day of the year where something or someone is not being observed, which has benefited the greeting card company, you can be sure. I'm not positive, but I think they've had a great deal to do with designating these days. Some days are celebrated a little more enthusiastical ... Read Christian Column


I Think I'll Drop Everything and Just Go Fishin'  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
I said something last week I haven't said in years. Where it came from, I really don't know. It's funny, you're tooling along minding your own business for weeks, maybe months at a time, and then something you haven't thought about for years pops into your noodle. I don't remember what brought it on, but I blurted out, "I think I'll just quit everything and go fishin'." Where the phrase came ... Read Christian Article


A Faux Pas Is A Mistake In A Tuxedo  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Everyone who is anybody has a hobby or at least entertains the idea. Hobbies range from sports to crafts to reading and even traveling. Some hobbies don't make sense to me like collecting dead insects. My long established hobby has earned me a membership in the POP (People Observing People) Culture. The rules specify that each member must swear not to divulge anything observed. Being a minis ... Read Christian Article


How My Wife Cured Me Of "FLIP-FLOPPING"  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Those who knew me when I wore a young parson's suit and tie would willingly attest to the fact that I reigned as the "flip-flop" king, and to be honest, I was rather happy in this position with no desire to resign. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "Consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds." If that is true, I have a more than ample mind. For some reason, certain persons (and you know who yo ... Read Christian Article


Who Has The Greatest Job In The World?  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
I have, in my opinion, the world's perfect job. Just look at the evidence. I love people and I love God. I love talking to people about God and I love talking to God about people. Therefore, if you put these two together, I am doing what I love doing: the greatest job in the world. I must confess, however, this was not always the case. When I wore a younger man's suit, I had different ideas ... Read Christian Article


And How Do We Feel This Morning?  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Without question, going to the hospital is teamwork from the time you arrive until you are wheeled out the front door. Everyone is working together for the common good of the patient, or at least a crack at his bank account. That is as it should be in such mercenary endeavors. Spending a few days in the hospital recently reinforced this in my own mind. Although my time in the hospital was brief ... Read Christian Article


A Key In Hand Is Worth A Thousand On My Desk  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
A key fault I have, and I can only talk about one fault at a time, is the tendency to get busy. I often find myself chasing my own tail. What I will do with it when I catch it is beyond my understanding. However, this notwithstanding, I fall into the trap time after time of getting too busy for my own good. The faster I try to go; the less I seem to accomplish. This past week proved no excep ... Read Christian Article


It Was Lights Out At The Old Ballgame  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Someone yelling, “Let’s play ball,” officially announces spring. Springtime and baseball seem to go together, as if God created springtime just for the national pastime. Something about that first baseball game seems to shake away all the gloomy aspects of the past winter. As soon as Old Man Winter strikes out for the last time, good old springtime steps up to the plate and a new game is afoot. ... Read Christian Article


As The Old Year Fades, So Does My Memory  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
Memory is a very tricky thing, at least for me it is. Looking back, over a year's span of activity my memory seems to pick and choose what it remembers. It amazes me not so much what a person remembers but what a person forgets. Often some old-timer will moan about how much he misses the good old days. I'm not sure if he is thinking of World War II or the great Depression. I'm positive that dur ... Read Christian Article


My Mother's Amazing Meatloaf Mystery  
Christian Article  - Family
Fiction: False
Every mother harbors a mystery of some sort. Many handed down from one generation to the next forming a bond so strong no man can penetrate. I came to realize this at an early age, which has stood me in good standing throughout life. Namely, don't mess with female secrets. It all started at a church fellowship supper, which is usually the centerpoint of any good church. Attend just one church f ... Read Christian Article


If "All Things Are Possible,” Why Can't I Balance My Checkbook?  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
For me, the most terrible time of each month is the day our bank statement comes. We commonly call it BSS (Bank Statement Syndrome). I don't know why it is, but I have trouble getting the parsonage checkbook to balance with the monthly bank statement. That ominous document intimidates me every time it arrives. After all, the bank's business is keeping track of accounts. They have hundreds, mayb ... Read Christian Article


Pastors and politicians; It's my party, I'll cry if I want to.  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
Gary Hemsely was running for some county political position — I've forgotten which one now. What I do remember is that he was a member of my church at the time. Sometimes a pastor can get between the Rock of Ages and a politician without trying too hard. That seemed to be my predicament with Gary. In all things political, I have maintained one basic philosophy: Ask not what your country can do ... Read Christian Article


Nurses, Bedpans And X-Rated Hospital Gowns  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
Tuesday last I awoke from my nightly slumber with terrific pain in my chest, much like an elephant break-dancing on my chest. It was painful just to breathe, but like the trooper I am, I shrugged it off and set about my daily routine. Rather than improving, the pain intensified. I went to my office and started the day's work only to find it almost impossible. Fortunately, my one daughter is a p ... Read Christian Article


Where Do Politicians Come From And Can They Be returned?  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
I had a dream the other night. Dream nothing, it was a nightmare, if you must know the truth. Normally I don't put too much stock in dreams — or — nightmares, as the case may be, but this was different. My grandmother believed in dreams. The most important part of her night were the dreams that visited her. She usually indulged in several dreams during any given night. Upon rising in the mor ... Read Christian Article


Republican? And Other Cultural Anomalies  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
IS GOD A DEMOCRAT OR A The amazing thing about contemporary American culture is its predisposition to organize itself into neat little categories. This "pigeonhole syndrome," referred to by some as PHS, (not to be confused with PMS), is responsible for much of the stress in our society today. We even categorize this stress, enabling us to compare our stress with people we meet. Some fear th ... Read Christian Article


All I Want From ‘SANTY' Is My Sanity  
Christian Article  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Christmas is the one time of the year when it is okay to be traditional. That may be the reason why so many people look forward to the Christmas holidays. The rest of the year most people are under the pressure to be "non-traditional," whatever that may mean. Today it is not politically correct to be traditional and if you are, you run the risk of being out of favor with the rest of society. ... Read Christian Article


The One Great Sermon That Got Away  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
Most people don't realize ministers are obligated to prepare and preach one great sermon in their career. In looking over my record of sermons, I noticed many "good" sermons, but an obvious lack in the list of a single "great" sermon. Perusing my list brought back some marvelous memories. I smiled as I remembered each sermon and where I preached it. Of course, I'm at that stage of life where th ... Read Christian Article


Preparation & Execution of My Income Tax Return  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
April 15th is the time of the year when Americans can communicate with their government. I cannot testify for anyone else, but I look forward to this marvelous opportunity and I am careful not to waste it. This year, for example, so much has happened to me since last year it took 15 single-spaced typed pages to include everything. However, to be perfectly honest (and who's perfect), I am a litt ... Read Christian Article


Thanksgiving Poses A Question Of Choice  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
The door to my office exploded as hundreds, at least it seemed like that many to me, of children surrounded my desk. My defenses were down and the merry mob held me captive. Wisely, I decided to surrender and throw myself on the mercy of the gang. Simultaneously, and in hi-fi stereophonic sound, the children assaulted me with questions. "Pastor, what's ya doin'?" "Pastor, is that your com ... Read Christian Article


Just The Fax, M’am  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
For years, I smugly prided myself as a non-fax machine person. I felt it beneath my dignity to own such a technical contraption. The quill is more my style than a computer but, being practical, I reluctantly use a computer, casting wistful glances at the dust gathering on my quill. Unfortunately, in the world in which we live, it is necessary to fax some letters or documents to someone in some ... Read Christian Article


How Time Flies When I Am In A Hurry  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
Have you ever noticed that when you are on vacation time goes by rapidly? According to my calculations (and I'm the first to admit I didn't do well in calculus), the average minute during vacation time is less than 20 seconds. This is one reason time goes by so quickly on vacation. The other reason, as everyone knows, is that during a vacation week there are no days beginning with the letter “T ... Read Christian Article


What Whine Goes With Cooked Goose?  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
Some who know me suggest I might be a wee bit absentminded at times. I prefer to think of it as simply being actively engaged in processing thoughts; giving the tiny gray cells a good workout. My motto: Don't hate me because I'm thoughtful. I must admit to a certain aura of preoccupation at times. However, it is not as severe as the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage seems to think. I just have ... Read Christian Article


WWJV - whom would Jesus vote for?  
Christian Article  - Other
Fiction: False
My favorite novel, as a young person, was In His Steps, written by Charles Sheldon. The premise of this novel is simple. A group of people in the church made a spiritual pact that before doing or saying anything they would preface it by asking the probing question, "What would Jesus do?" (WWJD). If you have read that novel, you know this simple query put everyone's life in jeopardy. Everyone, t ... Read Christian Article


Romance Around The Parsonage Fireplace  
Christian Book Excerpt  - Relationships
Fiction: False
There is no greater place for personal reflection than before a fireplace with a cheery fire. Since our parsonage does not have a fireplace, the Mistress of the Parsonage has improvised. She purchased, just for occasions like this, one of those freestanding fireplaces that, instead of burning wood, burn alcohol. There is no wood to cut or ashes to haul, which makes for a pretty good deal. Th ... Read Christian Book Excerpt


Out To Pastor - My TV Career Viciously Plucked From Me  
Christian Column  - Life
Fiction: False
Whoever said, "Some things are not to be," said a mouthful. I have found that, although I may want to do something, it is not for me. Of course, the opposite is also true. Some things I do not want, yet somehow they find residence upon my person, and usually do not pay rent. Wouldn't it be nice if you could just choose everything you like in life? Quite recently I had been doing some interviews ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Trials And Triumphs Of The Chronically Lazy  
Christian Column  - Current Events
Fiction: False
All through my formative years my father and other authority figures railed quite mercilessly against what they called being lazy. According to them, laziness was about as close to the unpardonable sin as a human could possibly get without being burned by hell’s blaze. The lesson for me was, "With all thy getting, get as far away from laziness as possible." These authority figures backed up the ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Nightmare After Christmas  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Technically, Christmas is over... all over our living room floor, that is. Piles of wrapping paper in this corner and empty boxes in that corner and colorful ribbons from here to there, all evidence that Christmas must have been a success this year. I was reclining in my chair, sipping a nice cup of hot chocolate while the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage was cleaning up the kitchen. Both of ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Some Patriotic Reflections for the Fourth of July  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
The Fourth of July is upon us and nobody enjoys a party more than Yours Truly. I will offer any excuse to break into some kind of a party mode. The slightest hint of refreshments and I have my "these-boots-were-made-for-walking" footwear on and I am ready to go. I especially like birthday parties, when it is somebody else's birthday, that is. I have found when it is my birthday party too many p ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor Special Edition - Things My Father Never Told Me  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
This is my first Father's Day to celebrate without my father. Earlier this year he passed away after a long battle with heart and lung disease. It will be a rather somber day for me this year, but I carry in my heart all those things we shared while he was alive. My father taught me many things especially when I was young. He taught me how to ride a bicycle, hunt and fish and then how to drive ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Last Hurrah of Summer  
Christian Column  - Current Events
Fiction: False
As the last firecracker sizzled in the night, I heaved a sigh of relief. It is not that I do not enjoy a good firework display, but after all, when you have seen one firecracker they are all just about the same. The thing they all have in common is they cost money. That is my problem. Blowing up bushels of dollars in the air does not seem very exciting to me. But the Fourth of July celebration ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Thanksgiving Quandary: Roast Turkey or Lame Duck  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
My father used to tell me anything worth doing was worth doing right the first time. If you have time to do it the second time, you have time to do it right the first time. As fathers go, he was right. It seems most people have not learned this lesson, least of all politicians who are supposedly serving the interests of their constituency. I know there are good politicians in America today. No ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Overstuffed And No One To Blame  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
I am sitting in my overstuffed chair and if I never get up it will be a day too soon. Even if I did, I do not know what I would do. Right now, breathing is zapping me of any energy I have left. It is so bad I have to coordinate thinking between breathing. Thanksgiving dinner at the Parsonage was a tremendous success. If by success, you mean stuffing yourself so much that you can barely move. ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - A Post-Thanksgiving Wishbone  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Now that Thanksgiving is over, I am able to sit back and recoup from the activity. I'm not sure about anybody else, but a holiday such as Thanksgiving takes a lot out of me. Of course, it puts a lot in me, but that's another story. The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and Yours Truly were catching our breath right after our Thanksgiving fiesta. I was enjoying the quiet moment when my wife sa ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Christmasfication Of Our Home  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
Our home, like every other home this time of year, bears the decorations of the Christmas season. This is all thanks to the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. My assigned role in the whole Christmas affair was to keep out of her way. And, out of her way, I kept. Consequently, our house is full of the glitter and tinsel of the season with Christmas music playing in the background. In the very ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - A New Look At The Old Year  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
From a practical standpoint, and if I am anything I am practical, well, practically, this year has gone by rather quickly. The fact I have survived this past year has to count for something. I was musing on this with the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage just the other day. I was feeling rather comfortable with myself and was congratulating myself on making it through another year. After all, ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - An American Idol I'm not  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
Nobody needs to tell me I cannot sing, although I have many fine friends who forward this information to me on a regular basis. It is as though there was a friend-wide conspiracy trying to convince me not to sing in public. Even the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage gets in on this act. We will be driving down the road and suddenly she will say, "What's that awful noise?" Then she will look at ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Girl Scout Cookie Conspiracy  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
I am not a great believer in conspiracies. I do not believe Bigfoot really exists except in the strained imaginations of some people. Some want to believe in Bigfoot, and some need to believe in Bigfoot. I'm not one of them. I do not believe in the Loch Ness monster. I am sure some Scotsman, after a few nips at the jug, saw something. One thing about the Loch Ness monster is it has been g ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS...  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
Every family has those traditions and days that help define their family. I personally know some families (although I shall not divulge any names unless there is enough cash present) that are adequately defined by April 1. For me, Christmas Eve clearly defines me. Christmas Eve means many things to me. For one, it means shopping. Yes, it is true; I do all my Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - The Taxing of My Fragile Sanity  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
I'm fine now, but such was not the case this past week. Normally, I am not given to procrastination, except when it comes to giving my money away. I am not Mr. Scrooge but I am Mr. Fugal. I always pay my income tax but I also wait until the last minute to write that check and autograph it for good old Uncle Sam. I was thankful to have several extra days to do it this year. Instead of April 15, ... Read Christian Column


Laying My Mother's Day Cards On The Table  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
I am not one given over to gambling unless you call life a gamble and then all bets are off. I do not even play the lottery because I would end up paying out $1,987.14 in order to win $10. I have a difficult time parting with my money because I am a Pennsylvania Dutchman; at least that is my excuse. That being said, there is only one area of my life where I indulge in a certain amount of gambl ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Not guilty or innocent, that is the question  
Christian Column  - Current Events
Fiction: False
A murder trial in our area that gained international attention involved a young woman accused of murdering her two-year-old daughter. She was facing four counts of murder including the death penalty. After the jury deliberated, they came back and exonerated her on all four counts. The jury's verdict was, "not guilty." As far as the law is concerned, this woman is not guilty of the crime she wa ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - On Pledging My Allegiance  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and Yours Truly just finished supper and we were resting in the living room watching the TV news. Actually, my wife was watching the news while I was perusing a book. As far as I am concerned, nothing equals the relaxation of a good book after a good supper. My definition of a good book is the one I am reading at the time. I had just settled into my book ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Finding a cure for textaholics  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
Recently, the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and Yours Truly upgraded our lives with cell phones. Up to this time, I just assumed the cell phone was what a prisoner used.. My wife and I drug our feet for a long time until we finally took the plunge. Both of us finally went to the cell phone store and signed up for cell phone service. She picked out a phone for her and then picked up anothe ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - How to Ruin a Perfectly Good Day  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
Speaking of good days, and who isn't these days, I am looking forward to two in a row. I know it may be wishful thinking on my part, but a person has to do something with his time. Last week I almost broke my record with two consecutive good days. But, wouldn't you know it, it just did not happen. With all my experience in this matter, I plan to write a book someday: "How to Ruin a Perfectly ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - After Thanksgiving Feasting Comes The Loafing  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
Twenty-four hours ago, I was seated with my family and friends around the Thanksgiving table. Now, I am seated in my chair and cannot move. I won’t say I ate too much yesterday. I did, I just won’t say it. Why is it on Thanksgiving we give ourselves permission to gorge ourselves to the point of semi-consciousness? The difference between consciousness and semi-consciousness is that with semi-con ... Read Christian Column


Give Us This Day Our Turkey . . . Again  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Thanksgiving is my kind of holiday. Apart from the "thanks" part, the primary purpose of this celebration is eating. That is the one thing I do quite well. Thanksgiving is the beginning of a feasting frenzy that would make Richard Simmons sweat to the goodies. Any thoughts of dieting at this time of the year are merely blowing in the wind. Hopefully, not in my direction. Our Pilgrim Fath ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - It all began with a love note  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Forty-one years ago, I was a naïve 19-year-old just beginning life's journey. I do not like to brag but I was the poster child for naïveté. I had a few ideas about life but too few to make me a contributing member of the human society. What I knew about life could fit nicely in my trouser pocket with plenty of room for a country boy’s pocketknife. One of the things that I did not know is that ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Merry Is As Merry Celebrates  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Although I may look a little stodgy on the outside with a few gray hairs blossoming on the top, I still know how to celebrate, and this is the time of the year to do that sort of thing. I love a good Christmas celebration. For the last few years, I have never had to check my calendar to know when it is time to celebrate the Christmas season. It seems that the Thanksgiving turkey always gives r ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Where have all the men in white hats gone?  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
When I was growing up you could always tell who the good men were by the white hats they wore. Bad men always wore black hats. That made it rather convenient for those of us who were watching so we knew who would be winning at the end. When you were in trouble all you had to do was look for someone wearing a white hat. Not only did the good men wear white hats but also they were able to solve e ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Some amazing words for the New Year  
Christian Column  - Humor
Fiction: False
Every year somebody, who does not really have a life, comes up with words that should not be used during the New Year. I am not sure where this started but it just goes to show that there are a whole lot of people who do not have much to do. Topping the list this year of words not to be used is the word "amazing." Allegedly [which I think is one word that should not be used this year], 1500 pe ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Will the Easter bunny just hop away… Please!  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
I am what many people refer to as a purist. Many do not understand or know what a purist is so let me explain. No, a purist is not a Puritan, although I have nothing against Puritans and lean heavily in their direction. After all, I think it is better to be radical in the right direction than radical in the wrong direction as many people are today. I think the Puritans are getting a bad rap tod ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Why Not Just Be An American  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
As we celebrate another birthday of this great country, I cannot help but think back on some of our history. What a grand history we have had. I know some people are ashamed of our history and so we have revisionists rewriting American history. Nevertheless, I certainly want to celebrate the real America. My wife and I were relaxing after a scrumptious supper and were watching a little bit of T ... Read Christian Column


I’ve got Easter on my mind  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
I am not one to boast, at least not about myself unless someone is listening, but I do give some time to exercising the little gray cells in my mind. Many people, no names given, spend most of their time yapping while people like me spend their time napping. While napping, I am also exercising my mind. Some people exercise their mind by doing crossword puzzles. I tried this but every once in a ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Go Ahead - Make Dad's Day  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
Throughout the year, many days of celebration are tucked capriciously into the calendar. So much so, it is hard to find any day of the year where something or someone is not being observed, which has benefited the greeting card company, you can be sure. I am not positive, but I think they have had a great deal to do with designating these days. Some days are celebrated a little more enthusiasti ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - ‘Tis the Season to Stuff Myself like a Turkey and Get Away with It  
Christian Column  - Thanksgiving
Fiction: False
Now that summer is out of the way and the holiday season has begun, I can throw out the kitchen window all of those diet restrictions introduced by the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. After all, the whole purpose of the holiday season is to eat. It begins in late October with the mass distribution of candy, which I have no objection. A little candy in somebody’s life can go a long way to p ... Read Christian Column


Out To Pastor - Let the holiday season begin  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
This is the time of the year holidays get into full steam. It begins with Halloween when people put on a scary face and ends with New Year’s day when people put on a new face. I could never figure out if the Halloween face was the New Year’s Day face just that much older. I do not have much time for Halloween. Since the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage has put me on a strict diet that does n ... Read Christian Column


A Grandfather’s Stand on the Father Christmas Hullabaloo  
Christian Column  - Holidays
Fiction: False
During this time of the year, a certain controversy raises its ugly red-scarfed head. Year after year, this hullabaloo continues and nobody has taken the initiative to deal with this holiday wrangling. That is, until now. Normally, I am a mild-mannered person and just to be on the safe side, I stay out of telephone booths. You cannot be too careful, if you know what I mean. As a great philos ... Read Christian Column


To Stink, or Not to Stink, That is the Question  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
There are all kinds of questions in this world of ours. Most are rather annoying. It would not surprise me in the least if there were a gang of hooligans somewhere hired to make up silly questions. If I could find this gang, I would disperse them immediately, without a question. Of course, there is the fact that the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage is in cahoots with these question-maker-up ... Read Christian Article


As Summers Go, This One Is Going  
Christian Article  - God's Love
Fiction: False
Just the other day the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage was complaining about the weather. "It's so hot outside, I can hardly stand it." I could not resist saying, "Well, why don't you sit down." To which, she treated me to one of her infamous glares. I enjoy every aspect of summer and when God created summer, he created a masterpiece. Not a summer day goes by that I do not thank Him for ... Read Christian Article


If It Wasn’t for Bad Luck  
Christian Article  - Life
Fiction: False
I am not the kind of person that dabbles in luck. [Knock on wood.] When something looks like a good gamble to me, I run from it as fast as I can. If it looks too good to be true, believe me, it probably is not true. Luck has never been a friend of mine. The only luck I have ever had in life is when I conned a young lady into saying, “I do.” That was 47 years ago and I have never had a luckier m ... Read Christian Article


“Can I Get an Amen?”  
Christian Article  - Angels
Fiction: False
An interesting aspect to people is there proclivity toward hypocrisy. By that I mean we say one thing but we really do not mean it or it does not really apply to us personally. I was complaining about this to the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage this past week. “Why is it,” I said most curiously, “people really don’t mean what they say?” She responded by saying, “I always mean what I sa ... Read Christian Article


Home Has Never Been Sweeter  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
If the good Lord ever intended me to travel as much as I have been traveling, I'm sure He would have given me wings. I like the idea of traveling; it is the actual traveling that gets me. The only good thing about traveling is that home looks so good from so far away. Several years ago, I received an invitation to speak at a conference. It sounded like a great idea at the time. I have been ther ... Read Christian Article


Is It A Fragrance Or A Stench?  
Christian Article  - Angels
Fiction: True
This past week I had to go to the mall. I know, I should know better, but I thought I could sneak in, get what I needed and sneak out again. So much for my thoughts. I wanted to purchase several tie chains for my neckties and searched every jewelry store and nobody had them. Finally, I ordered three online, which would be shipped free, (which always gets my attention) to the nearest store, whic ... Read Christian Article


If This Is Autumn, What Was Summer?  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
I must confess that in the Parsonage there are times of confusion. It has nothing to do with age; it has everything to do with the human brain that is undernourished. The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage can say one thing and I can say something completely different. There are those rare occasions when we are on the same page, the same sentence and almost the same words. As we were eating ... Read Christian Column


I’m Dreaming of a Commercial Free World  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
It was one of those really busy weeks where there was hardly enough time to breathe. For myself, I was glad the week was over and I could relax for the evening. “What do you want for supper?” The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage queried. “Do you want to go out for supper?” Going out for supper was the last thing on my mind. All I wanted to do was relax here at the house. “No,” I said ra ... Read Christian Column


Why Did I Ever Grow Up?  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
At times, I have to do some errands for the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. It’s not that I like to do these errands, but I have learned this is one secret to getting along with her. The errand she had for me was to go to the Mall and pick up something she had ordered. In my own way I tried to finagle out of that errand, but the more I finagled the more insistent she was. So, I decided to f ... Read Christian Article


Out to Pastor - Slow Is Just the Way I Go  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
One of the main complaints in the Parsonage has to do with my procrastination. The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage often refers to me as, Sir Procrastinator, as if it was a bad thing. Anything that needs doing in our house, my wife is the first one to jump up and try to do it. She fixes things before they are even broken. How she does that, I will never know. It is a wife thing. I, on the ... Read Christian Column


How to Live with a Veggie-Holic  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
Dr. James L. Snyder In our house, not many conflicts expose themselves. For the most part, it is a very quiet and serene home occupied by two lovebirds. I am not saying we are perfect. For we are not. The imperfect side of this marvelous relationship is Yours Truly. I was born imperfect and I have honored my birthright ever since. I do not care what some may say about crazy people, I ha ... Read Christian Article


I’m Really Enjoying My Naivety  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
Someone recently said to me, “You sure are naïve.” I’m not sure what the incident was about at the time, and I was a little bit hurt by that saying. What did he mean that I am naïve? I have been giving this some thought and at this point, I remember quite a few people labeling me as naïve. Therefore, if people are right, it must be true. Yet, is it really that bad? Being naïve can have it ... Read Christian Column


A Smile Is Both Contagious and Healthy Dr. James L. Snyder  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
My grandfather had a favorite saying that went something like this, “A frown is just a smile upside down.” Nobody could smile quite like my grandfather. He never waited for any reason to smile, he just smiled. In fact, thinking about it today, I do not ever remember seeing my grandfather frown. I am sure he did, because we all do. However, it was not a major part of his life. Whenever the ... Read Christian Article


One Man’s Joke Is Another Man’s Discount  
Christian Article  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and I were dining out at a very nice restaurant. We had been on the road for two days and were weary of travel. At least, I was. Nothing I hate more on a vacation than travel. But this time it was not so bad because my wife was doing all the driving. She’s an excellent driver because she had the world’s best teacher. I admit that I was her teacher. We w ... Read Christian Article


Another Vacation in the Bank  
Christian Column  - Christian Living
Fiction: False
The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage and I arrived home from our vacation late Tuesday afternoon. I’m not one for vacations, but this one was special. Our grandson who lives in Ohio was graduating from high school and then this summer he would be heading off to London for some soccer group. He loves soccer. This is the second of our grandchildren to graduate from high school. I would not say ... Read Christian Column



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