First Presbyterian Church of Valparaiso

This phrase is used most frequently to describe how, despite dire or daunting conditions or circumstances, people still expect things to happen that will result in a desired outcome. No matter how bleak it is…there is hope that someone, somehow will do something or that things will change such that it will all come out OK in the end. In my working life, my favorite leader was notable for telling any manager who presented a plan that was based on a ‘hope’ that this would happe

Some of the beautiful aspects of the Lenten season are that they represent new beginnings in our spiritual growth while continuing our commitment to living through the values of Jesus Christ, our Savior. In Matthew 6, Jesus Christ encourages a private relationship between each of us and our Lord. The message from Jesus to his disciples is that when we give something to someone in need, we should avoid showing and telling others about our good deeds. In other words, we are enc

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” -1 Chronicles 16:34 It seems winter decided that it would make an appearance! Many folks are sure to seal up drafty windows on these chilly winter nights. Much to Heather’s chagrin, I’m that person who almost always sleeps with the window open a bit, even on some of the coldest nights. I love a nice cold room for sleeping. But what I love even more is the sound of the blowing wind. It reminds me of cozy nigh

An important change that happens when the usual way of thinking about or doing something is replaced by a new and different way. Merrim-Webster.Com - 30 Jan. 2021 “Nothing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change.” -Mary Shelley Frankenstein It’s February 2021 and it already feels like we are still on a rollercoaster we labeled 2020. January was an eventful month nationally and locally. I won’t go through what happened, but let’s just agree it was a whir