In the early years of the 20th century the American journalist, James Creelman, was travelling through the Balkans in search of the exiled queen of Serbia. Quite by chance he discovered that at the time the world’s supply of rose oil came from the Balkan Mountains. What fascinated him the most was the fact that the roses were harvested in … Read More

It’s amazing to think that a little over 20 years ago most of us had never heard of the Internet. Now we take it for granted and depend on it for work, communication, entertainment, and information; and we become incredibly frustrated if we can’t make an instant connection. Long gone are the days of dial-up when I would happily go … Read More

35-37 While it was still night, way before dawn, he got up and went out to a secluded spot and prayed. Simon and those with him went looking for him. They found him and said, “Everybody’s looking for you.”   38-39 Jesus said, “Let’s go to the rest of the villages so I can preach there also. This is why I’ve come.” … Read More

While you may never have read Paul Gallico’s book ‘The Man Who Was Magic’, it’s a fair bet that you will have heard of perhaps his most famous novel, but not because you have read it. On it’s publication in 1969 Gallico’s novel, ‘The Poseidon Adventure’ attracted little attention – the New York Times gave it a one-paragraph review, calling … Read More

It’s 50 years since Paul Gallico’s book ‘The Man Who Was Magic’, was first published. It tells the story of the secret city of Mageia, populated entirely by magicians and illusionists who spend their days perfecting and performing their tricks and magic skills. Until one day from over the mountains Adam arrives – Adam is different because he performs real … Read More

23-24 Suddenly, while still in the meeting place, he was interrupted by a man who was deeply disturbed and yelling out, “What business do you have here with us, Jesus? Nazarene! I know what you’re up to! You’re the Holy One of God, and you’ve come to destroy us!” 25-26 Jesus shut him up: “Quiet! Get out of him!” The afflicting spirit … Read More

Recently I’ve had to start arriving at church a little earlier in order to get my seat. This is not, you understand, because there won’t be any seats left, but rather because someone keeps sitting in my seat. Obviously they are unaware that it is my seat as there is nothing to denote it as such, and I don’t really … Read More

Well it’s not been a great couple of days for our Queen and Prime Minister here in the UK, who were both recorded making less than complimentary remarks, about other countries that we’re trying to forge good friendships with. The result has been a burst of conciliatory comments seeking to smooth over a lot of ruffled feathers! But that’s the … Read More

12-13 At once, this same Spirit pushed Jesus out into the wild. For forty wilderness days and nights he was tested by Satan. Wild animals were his companions, and angels took care of him.   14-15 After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee preaching the Message of God: “Time’s up! God’s kingdom is here. Change your life and believe the Message.” … Read More

An Indian water bearer walked several miles each day carrying water from the stream to his house. He carried the water in two clay pots hung on the end of a pole that rested across his shoulders. One of the pots had a crack in it and while it was as full as the other when he left the stream, … Read More