We’re just days away from the end of our fiscal year on August 31 and our $300 per household summer giving challenge. I want to thank those of you who have stepped up and joined us in this challenge. I’ve been so encouraged by the comments, calls, and notes you’ve written, expressing your commitment to … [Read More…] August 27, 2023

  This week we’re celebrating the life of Krista’s Grandma, Florence Trula Friend (1937–2023), who is home at last in the arms of her Jesus.   I’ll never forget Grandma’s love for the Gospel and her church. Every time we visited her in Soap Lake, Washington, she was busy with some cooking, crafts, or decorations … [Read More…] August 20, 2023

  One of the most important things I’ve learned about myself over the years is that I can tend to overextend myself. I’m a doer, and I tend to run at a fast pace. So, learning the disciplines of slowing down and practicing Sabbath rest are habits I’ve had to learn. Each August our family … [Read More…] August 13, 2023

  What a wonderful week! Watching hundreds of kids learn about Jesus, sing songs of praise, and have the time of their lives was deeply rewarding. Summer Blast is such a treat. And God is on the move!   I can’t tell you just how special it was to see so many of you serving … [Read More…] August 6, 2023

  This week is Summer Blast! We have 331 children registered and over 150 volunteers serving throughout the week. Together we’re looking forward to having great fun while we learn how to shine Jesus’ light and God’s love for each one of His children and to the world around us!   Would you join me … [Read More…] July 30, 2023

  One of the highlights of our trip to Washington a couple weeks ago was getting to see Krista’s Grandma. Grandma Florence has lived on a farm in Soap Lake for decades, and it’s always a joy to go and visit. This was our first time back since Grandpa LeRoy went to be with Jesus … [Read More…] July 23, 2023

  This week we’re diving deep into the Christian understanding of marriage as a sacred reflection of the ultimate covenant love that Christ has for his bride, the church. The Bible’s vision for marriage is lofty. But the problems in marriage are often heavy to bear. Since we’re considering marriage this Sunday, I thought it … [Read More…] July 16, 2023

  Our two oldest kids are excited to head to Lake Ann Camp this week! They’ve been planning and packing for days. Now they’re counting down the moments until Sunday, after church, when they climb aboard that bus and head up to Lake Ann and a week of adventure. Camp can be such a transformational … [Read More…] July 9, 2023

  I’m the oldest of six siblings, and growing up, we all had chores assigned to us. I was in charge of sweeping the kitchen floor after meals. I still enjoy sweeping to this day. When you’re part of a family, you pitch in and do your part. That’s what families do.   This summer, … [Read More…] July 2, 2023

  “In our family, we choose to live differently.”   Our kids can repeat that phrase. There are so many times when Krista and I have to explain to our kids why we are a bit odd as a family. They overhear other kids using words they’re not allowed to use. They wonder why they … [Read More…] June 25, 2023