December 26, 2011 by Dan Staifer
On every headstone, there are typically two dates. One date is celebrated yearly to comemerate the begining of one's life. The other is morned as the end of one's life on this earth. What are we to do between the two dates? For two weeks, join us to look at how we can make 2012 a year where we can structure and courage. Week 1 - Structure (Luke 2:22-40) Week 2 - Courage (Luke2:41-52)
December 26, 2011 by Dan Staifer
There is an old adage that familiarity breeds contempt. Usually this is quoted after a couple who has been married for many seemingly happy years suddenly up and gets a divorce. They quote irreconcilable differences as they begin to spew the most hate-filled words towards their spouse on their way to separation. At that point, some well-meaning friend will chalk it up in some form to this concept that familiarity has given birth to contempt. The thought behind this theory is that they got to know each other TOO much. Because they became too familiar, they began to hate instead of appreciate. They actually found all of the blemishes their mate had causing them to be no longer loveable. Each person also lost that mystery that encouraged exploration of the other. That sense of awe that caused each to yearn for time together turned into a sense of dread at the thought of spending any time together. Any habit that was cool and quirky while they dated in small doses has become annoying and torturous after experienced day in and day out. Because actions have become commonplace, they are...