Faith On Every Corner June 2026

June 2026

“From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.”

Psalm 113:3

Photographer: Pamela Morris Clark

As I look back on my journey, I realize that growing up in the 80’s sparked a fire within me for photography that still burns bright today. Despite cameras being a luxury back then, my parents gifted me a 110 film camera that ignited a sense of wonder and creativity. I recall capturing life’s precious moments everywhere I went, eagerly anticipating the developed photos. Photography became my constant companion as a teenager, and my children grew up with a lens focused on them - three beautiful kids who bring immense joy. Although life’s journey has had its ups and downs, including the end of a marriage in 2005, I found my footing again in 2006 when I met my husband, who has been my unwavering support and rock in pursuing photography. Together, we’ve created countless memories and adventures that I’ll cherish forever. With 20 years of life experience and love under my belt, I’m more convinced than ever that photography isn’t just a hobby, but a way to uncover the beauty in life’s moments, whether I’m hiking, fishing, or camping - it’s in those moments that I feel most alive and connected. A year and a half ago, my husband encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming a professional photographer, gifting me the equipment I needed to take the leap. Since then, I’ve been immersed in learning every aspect of photography, capturing everything around me, with kids, babies, and nature remaining my favorite subjects. God has given us so many beautiful things all around us there’s always something to photograph. Photography life is a beautiful life.

Luckystars.pm.79@gmail.com

Pamela Morris Clark Facebook

Pamela Clark photography Facebook

Luckystars7779 Instagram

Note From Karen Ruhl, Editor

June is here! Let vacations begin.

I still remember the last day of school - which was in June when I was in school. That last day was filled with anticipation of the final bell for the year. The teachers were ready for a swarm of kids running out of the rooms and ready to start the summer fun.

The first few days were filled with fun playing outside with friends. The parks were close by and most of us went there and would swing, toss balls, and jump rope, but no one, and I mean no one would go down the slide. Anyone who did came off crying because they got burned from the hot metal slide. That was the first and last time they ever got on the slide during the summer.

After a couple of weeks, you could find most of the kids sitting in front of fans and trying to stay cool. Front porches were filled with kids just sitting and talking about everything and nothing. It was a wonderful time spending the day with family and friends.

I must admit that I just don’t see kids playing outside much anymore. I think the computers have taken the place of playgrounds. And, many kids play sports. It is a different time in life, and I for one, am thankful I grew up in an earlier time.

I pray you all have a wonderful summer, enjoy your air conditioning, but don’t forget to go out and enjoy the sun. Take the kids to a park and enjoy watching them on swings, tossing balls, playing jump rope...but please warn them about the slides!

Much love and many blessings, Karen karenruhl12@gmail.com Team@faithoneverycorner.com

PS: If you have submitted an article or poem to me and haven’t heard from me. Please resend to Team@faithoneverycorner.com

Thank you!

Poems / Blessed ... by John Alexander ... Pages 6-7

Conversations In The Car ... by Melissa Henderson ... Pages 8-9

Walking in Love in a Divided World ... by Yvonne M. Morgan ... Pages 10-11

Summer’s Here! Grab a Book! ... by Donna J. Miller.. Page 12-13

Seven Words... by Michael E. Wells ... Pages 14-15

A Freshley Blossomed Lily ... by Irene Surya ... Page 16

A Heartfelt Thank You ... Karen Ruhl ... Page 17

Suffering Changes Us ... By Brianna Barrett ... Pages 18-19

The Ties That Bind ... By Shara Bueler-Repka ... Pages 22-23

When He Rises ... Andrea Marino ... Pages 24-25 And Then The Door Opened ... By Linda Castro ... Pages 28-29

Poems ... Mike Hall ... Page 30-31

A Tribute To A Nightbirdie ...by Jodie Glardon ... Page 32

Photos by Karen ... Page 33

I would like to introduce a new Photographer - Pamela Morris Clark

While walking in the Broyhill Walking Park, my friend Susan Strawn (another great photographer) watched as Pam was working with a very young girl and her family to get photos. She did a fantastic job and after, Susan started a conversation with her . We enjoyed talking to her and I asked for her to get in touch. I wanted to see her photos. As you turn the pages, you will see several pages with Pamela’s photos. I think you will enjoy them as much as we did.

Enjoy and God Bless You All,

Karen

John Alexander

Blessed

After over forty years of managing, designing, and developing the software for innovative communication systems my “career” came to an end in August of 2014. It was an enjoyable experience of developing various means of communication still in place today from “voice mail” to “voice over ip”. It was hard work and long hours but rewarding. During the years following my software career I’ve been engaged in writing children’s books, poetry, and novels.

Blessings, John Alexander

Blessings, John Alexander https://quiettimerhymes.com/

YouTube Channel @johnalexander3206

The second half of the forty-year software journey was much different from the first half. Midway through that journey I experienced my first parting of the ways. I was asked, as a second level manager, “What will it take for you to leave?” I was blindsided and lost my way for about six months. That experience taught me some valuable lessons that I still cherish today. Once learned, I restarted my software career and worked another twenty years with a different attitude. I learned those lessons the hard way. I pray as I share my journey through that valley, you can gain some insight from my experience. I had compartmentalized my walk with the Lord, separate from my work life. I knew the Lord had richly blessed me, but I considered my work life, my job and those financial rewards as something I had earned based on education, grades, degrees and hard work. When the rug was pulled out from under me, I finally realized that my life was in the Lord’s hands, not mine. Don’t get me wrong, I still maintain a strong work ethic, but I thank the Lord daily for the blessings in my life and acknowledge His control, not mine. I wrote a poem about my experience a few years ago. I pray it is meaningful and rings true in your life as well.

Blessings,

John Alexaander

QuietTimeRhymes.com

YouTube channel @johnalexander3206

Blessed

I once thought that good fortune was something I’d earned, That it came from hard work and the things that I’d learned. When the job and the income both vanished mid-stream,

It seemed I had lost both my fortune and dreams. It took me a while to adjust, reassess. Education, hard work, I was proud, I confess. I assumed I had earned the good fortune, the fame. Self-pity, depression can cripple and maim.

After months I found solace when down on my knees. I’d been blessed by the Lord; it was not from degrees. It was then God provided, a new job once more, Not managing people like I’d done before.

I was back in development, once more in code. I found it refreshing, God lightened my load. I trusted the Lord, His provision each day, Once again asked to manage as God paved the way.

I was blessed beyond measure for many more years. As I trusted the Lord I could walk without fear. After decades in software, God led me to write. I pray I touch others reflecting God’s light.

I write from the heart what I’ve found to be true. I’m blessed to be sharing with others like you.

Award-winning author Melissa Henderson writes inspirational messages laced with a bit of humor. With stories in books, magazines, devotionals and more, Melissa hopes to encourage readers. Melissa is the author of “Licky the Lizard” and “Grumpy the Gator”. Her passions are helping in community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon and Stephen Minister. Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and at https://www.facebook.com/melissa.henderson.9440

Read her blogs at: https://melissaghenderson.com/ It’s Always A Story With The Hendersons

Conversations In The Car

By Melissa Henderson

“Mimi, can I tell you something?” “Mimi, look at this.” “Bop, guess what?” “Bop, did you know about this?” These questions and more pour out of the mouths of our grandchildren every time we’re together. Great times for sharing conversations in the car.

The Bible tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Have you ever tried to share a conversation with someone, only to have them keep interrupting? Perhaps they have a point to make or important news to share. Maybe you or someone you know has spoken before listening. Scripture tells us to listen and then speak.

My husband and I love car rides with the grandkids. Rowan and Eden always have news to tell. From the moment they enter the vehicle, they try to grab our attention. When they are both talking at the same time, the noise level can become so loud that it’s hard to understand what anyone is saying. Yet, Bop and I try to understand.

Rowan and Eden have learned to take turns speaking. If one person takes too long to speak, the other person jumps right in and begins their story. Patience is learned at all ages.

In the past, I tried to answer their questions immediately. I learned that the grandkids weren’t interested in a response. They simply wanted to tell us about their school day and what they experienced. They tell us about laughter on the playground, which child in their class was absent, what the teacher did when someone disobeyed the rules, and much more.

When Rowan and Eden ask questions, I have discovered that they don’t wait for an answer. I start speaking, and they begin talking again. Now, I sit quietly and nod my head while the joyful sounds of their voices give me patience and smiles.

These interactions make me think of conversations that I have with family and friends. Yes, I’m a talker. I’ve always enjoyed visiting with people and having conversations. I must remember that God wants us to listen and be slow to speak.

My responsibility is not to have an answer for every query. I’m called to love others and listen. Sometimes, a listening ear is needed the most. A smile, a hug, and someone to listen. Those simple acts of kindness can bring light and love to the world.

I’ll try to remember that if the grandkids truly want answers, they will let me know. Meanwhile, I will listen and soak in the news of the day. Their words may bring giggles or tears. Bop and I want Rowan and Eden to know that we are ready to listen. No judgment or plan to fix every situation. Sometimes we just need to listen to conversations in the car.

Who have you listened to lately? Were you called to answer or wait?

Blessings,

Melissa Henderson aka Mimi

Yvonne M Morgan, Christian author and speaker

https://yvonne-morgan.com

Blog at Turningmountainsintomolehills.org Twitter: @ymmauthor

Website: Yvonne-Morgan.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ YMMauthor/

Turning Mountains into Molehills (2017)

Forgetting Thankfulness After the Miracle

By Yvonne M. Morgan

A dream woke me from a deep sleep the other night. I rarely remember my dreams, but this one stuck with me because of the message of thankfulness enclosed within it. I wrestled with what to do with it, but God gives us these words for a purpose.

I found myself back in the days of Christ in a market area. In the vision, I saw a person sitting by a gate. Voices, feet scurrying and animal noises filled the surrounding air, but he could see nothing. His sight was gone. As he sat alone, the noise grew as cheers erupted from the crowd near him, but he had no clue what was happening.

Everything stopped, and a hand reached down and touched the man. A voice asked if he wanted to see again and a whispered yes escaped his lips. As the hand lifted from his face, the man’s eyes fluttered open, the world rushing back into sharp focus. The man sprang to his feet, his gaze darting everywhere as he explored the area, his newly gained sight absorbing every detail. He hugged people and danced as he ran towards home to tell everyone what had happened. Jesus then turned to me. Life returned to a new normal for the man as the memory of the miracle faded.

Would you thank me for such a miracle? The words startled me awake.

Giving Thanks

Gratitude is woven throughout Scripture, reminding us again and again to give thanks in every circumstance. It is a central part of our faith, our response to God’s goodness and grace.

But how quickly does our gratitude fade when our focus shifts from Christ back to our daily lives? I believe thankfulness is such a key element in our faith; it helps us to fix our eyes on Jesus and all the things his hand provides for us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; “16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Gratitude is vital to God because it aligns human hearts with his will, acknowledging him as the source of all blessings.

Taking our Eyes off Christ

Gratitude is a direct acknowledgment that all good things come from Him, rather than personal effort. It also shows us that God works all things for our good. When we forget these things, pride, envy, and discontentment find their way into our hearts and then the grumbling sets in.

My Ebenezer to Thankfulness.

Years ago, our car skidded off the road into the grassy median. The car lost control and, by the grace of God, missed all the signs and obstacles in that median. It was a miracle that we did not die, or at least sustain injuries. We pulled out of the median and parked on the side of the road to allow our hearts to stop racing and to offer a word of thanks to God for keeping us safe.

As time passes, the wonder of the miracle diminishes, and gratitude wanes. Within days, I started yelling at the traffic in front of me again or was upset that someone’s blog got more comments than mine. I forget the miracle that I’m still here as I look around me instead of looking up. That is when I began making it a daily habit of starting my day by offering prayers of thanksgiving. It helps me refocus on heavenly things instead of the earthly things.

Expressing gratitude can be tough during hard times. Can we maintain a grateful attitude even if we:

• have marriage problems?

• lose your job?

• experience a health crisis?

As each problem arises, when we look to Christ for the answers instead of trying to solve them ourselves, we can learn to give thanks in all circumstances as we trust God for the outcome. We can learn to look for the opportunities to thank God amid the trials.

Always Give Thanks

Without thankfulness, we risk growing proud and inwardly focused. Gratitude helps us maintain the proper connection to the source of all lessings. Focusing on what we lack is less important than remembering all that we possess, which is what gratitude helps us do. By giving thanks, it reminds us of how much we have. When we choose gratitude, our focus shifts from what we lack to what we have. In that shift, we experience a deeper, lasting joy. Our very existence is a testament to the merciful blessings of God.

That question from my dream still lingers with me:

Would you thank me for such a miracle?

Maybe the better question is: am I already living in answered prayers I’ve stopped noticing?

Prayer

Dear Lord, I come to you today with a grateful heart. Sometimes I am slow to recognize your goodness, allowing complaining to overshadow my blessings. Please forgive me. Teach me to see your hand in both the small things and the big ones, in the food I eat, the air I breathe, and the challenges that help me grow.

Help me live today with an awareness of your presence. I choose gratitude in all circumstances, knowing your love endures forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Donna is a preschool curriculum writer for Lifeway and loves teaching two year olds at her church, Hudson First Baptist. She is a retired elementary school media coordinator and K-1 teacher. She loves all children - especially her 4 grandchildren! She loves to read, scrapbook, and make cards. Donna lives in Hudson, NC with her husband, Lewis. They enjoy traveling together.

Summer’s Here! Grab a Book!

By Donna J. Miller

Summer means no school, vacations, and a chance to relax! Summer may give breaks from required reading but it offers time to explore interests and read for fun. This time of year many magazines offer lists of “Beach Reads,” that may include novels, romances, mysteries, historical fiction and more. Many adults work in the summer, but hopefully have a few days of vacation where they can lay on the beach or sit on a swing and read something they don’t usually have time to read. Flying somewhere? Even in this day of computers and cell phones, airports and airplanes are full of people actually reading books. The longer sunlit evenings also give time to read.

Encouraging students to read in the summer helps prevent the “summer slide,” which is a tendency for students to lose some of the skills they learned during the school year. While reading in the summer, kids can explore topics of interest that they didn’t have time to explore when they had homework to do and assigned reading to finish.

Encouraging students to engage in summer reading can help them stay sharp, discover new interests, and start the next school year with confidence. Students who don’t read or participate in other educational activities over the summer can lose 3 months of progress especially in reading and math. It can be difficult to catch up when school resumes.

How can you encourage summer reading for adults and children? First check with local libraries. Many public libraries have summer reading programs for children (and often adults) with prizes to reward reading. While prizes are fun, the real benefit is the relaxing and learning that we enjoy. Check also with your church library and school library. They may also offer summer programs.

If a summer reading program isn’t available near you, design your own program for you and your family. Some simple ideas to track reading:

Divide a piece of paper into 12 blocks (or 6 for reluctant readers). Write a prompt in each square of something that you or your child would enjoy reading.

Write your book suggestions on sticky notes - one per sticky note and attach them to the side of the refrigerator as you complete them. ake a paper chain listing one book you have read on each link. Maybe each family member could have a different color of paper on a family chain. You can make a fancy computer diagram with clipart or make a simple hand drawn diagram. The important thing is to read and encourage your children to read.

Some suggestions to choose books to broaden your reading this summer are:

A book set in your state

A book about a place you are visiting this summer.

A book about summer activities (camp, swimming, fishing, etc.)

A new book in your favorite genre.

A book set in your dream destination.

A classic book over 40 years old.

A non-fiction book to help you learn more about your dream destination.

A book on an E-reader or an audio book (branch out!).

The same book a friend is reading so you can share your thoughts about it.

A cookbook (Be sure to try some of the recipes).

A favorite book that you have read before.

A how-to book (Try a new craft, learn new exercises, learn sign language, so many choices).

The book of the Bible that you are studying in Sunday School or that your pastor is preaching from this summer.

A Bible story book geared to your child’s age.

A nonfiction book about an interesting animal.

A historical fiction book.

A book you remember reading as a child (Even better if you can read it to a child).

A biography of a person you admire.

A book published in 2026.

A missionary story.

A book that has won an award.

A new book by a favorite author.

A book written by an author from your state or city.

A book recommended by a friend.

Read the gospel of Luke, a comprehensive view of Jesus’s life, or John which gives insight into who Jesus is.

Compare the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Read to a pet or read to a stuffed animal (fun for children).

To make your personal summer reading program work: Visit the library often for new books. Incorporate a reading time into your schedule. Maybe allow kids to stay up half an hour later if they are reading. Limit screen time. Make a cozy reading space (pillows on a porch swing, a comfortable chair, a window seat or couch you can stretch out on). Prepare a few inexpensive rewards for yourself and your kids (a picnic, an ice cream cone, a trip to the bookstore, a small toy or other treasure, etc.)

Proverbs 18:15 says, “Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.” Proverbs 24:14 says, “Eat honey, dear child—it’s good for you— and delicacies that melt in your mouth. Likewise knowledge, and wisdom for your soul— Get that and your future’s secured, your hope is on solid rock.” Reading is a way to get knowledge of the world around us and to appreciate what God has created. When we take time to read the Bible, we also learn about living God’s way. Knowledge can lead to wisdom! Use this summer to gain both knowledge and wisdom.

Happy Reading!

(Bible verses from the Message)

Morning Coffee

by Michael E. Wells

Michael E. Wells has a passion for writing letters of Christian encouragement. With poetic style and moving messages, the reader is often comforted and consoled, inspired and refreshed. Since his retirement from Federal Service in 2006, most mornings are spent penning letters of the heart. Tucked away in the foothills of Pennsylvania, his is an idyllic lifestyle in a pastoral setting. This backdrop helps to set both mood and message for his many writings. You can find his book, “Morning Coffee with Words For The Day” at Amazon.com.

SAVED BY GRACE HELD BY FAITH

Some believe only the first part of that statement to be true and not the latter but the writer of Hebrews (3:12-14) states it plainly as fact. Sin is a part of life and always knocking at the door, just a natural tendency of the flesh. One we will not be rid of this side of heaven. Beside the natural consequences of sin and there are many, is the spiritual.

It is not the act of sin but the result of it that will destroy one’s faith. The writer notes that continued sin results in hardness of heart towards God and so a loss of faith will result. This is where we come in, friends and family in the faith with words of encouragement. Yes, we are our brother’s keeper. Always be ready with a word of grace and faith.

We never really know where a person is with God at any given moment. You may be the one who makes the difference for that day. Godly encouragement is a wellspring of life to a parched soul. May you carry their water today. Be that oasis who refreshes. We as individuals must stand on our own two feet before God but may you be as Moses’ friends who held up his arms while he fought his battle.

WHEN WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGH

“I’ll keep you in prayer, you’re in my thoughts, hope all works out, let me know if you need anything.” Etc, etc, etc... Though these words are helpful to those who may be going through life’s struggles, they many times are not enough. It was said of Jesus, when He looked upon the multitudes, He was moved with compassion. Moved to do something. He also spoke the parable, which in part reads, “I was hungry and you fed Me, thirsty and gave Me drink. I was naked and you clothed Me, in prison and you visited Me. I was a stranger and you took Me in, sick and you look after Me.”

The people asked, “When did we do all these things to You?” Jesus said, “When you do these things to others, you have done them to Me.” These are life’s basic necessities and purest acts of mercy. To Jesus, when we come upon these opportunities, words are not enough. Yes, we have busy lives and are always heading somewhere but Jesus’ greatest acts of mercy was while He was on His way. The moment we walk out our door we are confronted and reminded of life’s struggles, ours and of others. Sometimes though, it is only a short walk to the kitchen or another room to see the need in our own home.

Today, may you be moved with compassion as you pass through countless lives. May you discern who needs more than words. In the natural, it is easy to see needs but some are not so easy. Many times our hunger and thirst, our imprisonment and sickness is spiritual. Both encouraging words and being there are essential. Jesus encourages us, as we interact with the many people we come across daily, to at times be moved to do something because sometimes...words are not enough.

UNDER THE INFLUENCE

“All the world’s a stage and we are merely players, performers and portrayers. Each the other’s audience...” Words to a song from the band Rush, which was a take from Shakespeare’s famous line. These words speak volumes to the condition of humanity. We are not creatures of original thought nor are we, as some would pride themselves, free thinkers. Much of our ancient history has been lost to time. Great monoliths exist but their origins are shrouded in mystery.

Through the ages tales have been told, religions have begun and wars have been fought. But one common thread throughout the stories is of manipulation by a greater power. One of supernatural, otherworldly origin. Our interpretation of these stories is suspect but the reality of its influence is not. Even today millions are guided by thought into action. Which brings me on point today. Our thoughts are not our own. Therefore we need to consider our thinking.

Are you under the influence... The answer is yes but whose. The apostle Paul revealed our struggle in writing to the Romans, “I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin...” He later writes the answer to our dilemma, that of losing our mind and gaining God’s. But the Bible declares the mind of Christ is available only to those who receive Him through faith. So today may you purpose in your heart and mind to live each day under the influence...of God.

A FRESHLY BLOSSOMED LILY

By Irene Surya

As the sun’s rays

Slid through my open window, I caught a glimpse Of a freshly blossomed lily.

Captivating in appearance, The lily enthralled my soul, Making me wonder At its beauty although small.

Dr. Irene Surya is an awardwinning author of her book, In Solitude with God. Her poems have been published in various magazines and anthologies. She has a passion for writing for the Lord and glorifying His name through her writings. She loves and serves the Lord with her husband.

As I gazed at the lily for long, I was reminded of Jesus’ words, Even Solomon in all his glory Was not clothes like this lily.

As I pondered deep for a while It struck me very hard, Let me not worry Let me not fret about tomorrow.

The Lord who clothes the lilies Will take care of you and me, As I trust in the Lord With a mustard seed faith.

He who has planted me At the right place, And given me the right environment Will help me bloom best for His glory.

Click on book to purchase from Amazon.

Missing The Deadline

By Karen Ruhl

It is hard to believe that we have been publishing Faith On Every Corner Magazine for 15 years. And, it all started with a drive into the mountains. I have told this story so I will type a condensed version.

While driving up toward Hendersonville, NC, I had a thought hit me and I had no clue where it came from. At that point, I felt/heard that we should write and produce a magazine. As I started to tell Craig, he pulled over and said, “Karen, I had that same vision as we were driving.” So without going in to all of the details, Craig and I started brainstorming what we could do and how would be get the articles. But first, we needed a name for the magazine. “As we were driving through a small town, I saw a sign in the window and told Craig to pull over so I could take a picture. It was a car repair shop, and when we pulled in the owner came out and I explained what happened and that the sign in his window may be the answer to the name of the magazine. He smiled, and we all said a prayer. The sign read “Faith On The Corner,” he said it came to him when he was praying to decide if he should buy the building.

When we got home, I started working on the title and what the magazine might look like. I worked for television and radio stations, I wrote stories and had my photos published from our travels around the areas, and I worked for a magazine. The ideas came easily and within hours, we had the name for the magazine, the look of the magazine, and planned on publishing within the month...we succeeded.

I had been stressing about missing the deadline to get the June issue out by June 1st, but then I started thinking about how God gave us the magazine and the last thing He wanted was to give us morestress. So, here I am, on June 3rd, 2026 finishing up the June issue of Faith On Every Corner, and, I still have faith on the corner knowing that God wants me to continue to publish the wonderful articles, photos, poetry and more from the wonderful Christian authors, photographers, and more.

I hope you enjoy and I thank you for understanding that sometimes deadlines just need to wait.

I love you all, God bless you, Karen

Brianna is a Carolina girl who loves Jesus and her family. She enjoys watching the sunrise, photography, reading, writing, and paddleboarding. According to her teenage son, she’s a master chef in the kitchen, making gluten-free cuisine from around the world. Her writing and photography have appeared in numerous publications including Faith On Every Corner, Creation Illustrated, and Our Story Magazine, and she is a contributor to The Grit and Grace Project and Broken But Priceless Magazine where she writes the column, “From A Homemaker’s Heart”. Her first devotional book, “Hope in the Healing: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through Chronic Illness” is due out this spring. Check out her latest works at www.briannagrams.com and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.

When You Feel Like You Are Sinking

By Brianna Barrett

Have you ever stood on the brink of the ocean waters, wondering, ‘Is the sun really there? Will the sun rise today despite the cloudy conditions?” Maybe you’re watching from your window and waiting for the sun to crest the horizon, yet some mornings with the fog and clouds, you wonder, will it? Will the sun rise despite the weather circumstances?

Yes, just like God’s faithfulness.

The sun always rises, even when the clouds try to hide it.

God is always with us, even when our circumstances seem overwhelming, and everything is just too much.

God is there in the moments of hard, the stillness of the night, the times your mind is running a marathon, and in the early morning hours when you try to do all the things to be a good wife and mom. God is there.

Do you ever find yourself in a moment of surrender? When those circumstances seem too much, yet you know who your sun is and know where to turn. Maybe you don’t know where to turn when life seems like more of a checklist than life. I’ve been there. My brain fogged over with the many things that need my attention; the tasks at hand, the joy of serving others seems to have exasperated me yet again. The news of hardships all around, the declining health of family members, it all seems more than I can handle.

Though these times seem hard and overwhelming, I’ve learned where to turn, straight to my Heavenly Father. I don’t always turn there at the right time. God is there with us through the hard, the holy, and the good times. In Psalm 16, David pens, “I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” (Psalm 16:8 NLT). He never leaves us. (Deuteronomy 31:6). He’s holding us with his right hand. (Isaiah 41:13). Even when we are going through deep waters, he will not let us drown. (Isaiah 43:2).

Storms will come, but where you put your focus and anchor determines how you fare through the storms of life.

Jesus’s brother, James, tells us we will face trials and hardships, and we should find that joyful. (James 1:2). It’s hard to be joyful for hard things when you are going through them, but the advice continues: “For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” (James 1:3-4 NLT). God uses the storms in our lives to mold us. He transforms us, growing and maturing our faith. The greatest lesson I’ve learned so far in life is to surrender it all to the Lord, because He’s in control. It doesn’t matter what “it” is. He’s got it.

When you are searching for the next breath because you feel like one more thing will bring you to your breaking point, I remind you to turn to the One who gave you breath (Acts 17:25b), turn to the One who created you in His image (Genesis 1:27). When the waters feel as though they are going to consume you, remember that God created the waters and His son can walk on water (Matthew 14:25). Peter got out of the boat that night, and started walking towards Jesus (Matthew 14:29); he was walking on water. Yet the minute he looked down at the waves lapping at his feet, he started to sink (Matthew 14:30). Have you ever felt like Peter? You are walking in faith, then something happens, and then things pile on, and you lose your focus on Jesus. You look at your circumstances. How are we going to do this? The waves are lapping at your feet and you start to sink. But Jesus comes to your rescue; when our faith and focus are on Him, we don’t see those waves lapping at us. No, we just keep walking on water towards Jesus because we know He will care for us and keep us safe in His presence.

Today, if you feel overwhelmed, I encourage you to cry out to the Lord, let Him into your circumstances, be honest, and tell Him how you feel. Stay focused on Him, don’t watch the waves lapping at your feet. He is faithful, and He is in control.

Lord, forgive me for looking at my circumstances and losing sight of you. Thank you for never giving up on me. Lord, I surrender all to you today. Every circumstance, every relationship, every health challenge, I surrender all. May your will be done in my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Reflection:

1. What burdens do you need to leave at the foot of the cross? 2. What is holding you back from anchoring your life to Jesus, fully surrendering everything to Him? Write out a prayer, surrendering all to Him today.

Photographer: Pamela Morris Clark

Shara Bueler-Repka is enjoying life as a singer/ songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, and awardwinning author. She and her husband, Bruce, live in their living quarters horse trailer and call “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mailbase, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. She loves sharing God’s Word through music with her husband, riding their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry, and writing about God’s grace in their various adventures on the trail less traveled.

THE TIES THAT BIND

by Shara Bueler-Repka

This phrase, although usually positive, can also fly in the opposite direction. Generational issues we’re tethered to can bind every aspect of our lives…After a particularly tough day at work, I curled up in my favorite chair, flipped to my favorite TV program, and nursed my wine of choice. Later that evening, as I reached for the wine bottle to fill my glass for the third time, a still, small voice stopped me cold: “Do you want to end up like your grandfather?”I jumped back as if that bottle had fangs! And I whipped around to see who had spoken.

There was no one there. Heart pounding, I realized the Lord was intervening in a situation that might have become a serious i`ssue.

What drives addiction or disorder? These issues, like weeds, have roots.

The word “FEAR” flashed across my thoughts. My family is no stranger to gut-wrenching, knee-knocking fear.

One of my grandmothers fled Mexico with her family—Pancho Villa, the notorious bandit, hot on their heels. The fear they felt and the horrors they saw haunted their memories. Fear: of dying, losing loved ones still in Mexico, of the future.

One of my grandfathers was kicked out of his home in Switzerland because he was too small to work the family farm. Fear: of rejection, the unknown, of his own volatile anger.I didn’t know my other grandfather too well, but was told he couldn’t be trusted. Fear: of isappointment.My other grandmother was pretty much a saint. But she, too, had heartaches and fears that culminated into the phrase: “Pray for the best, but prepare for the worst.” My grandfather had run off, leaving her with three little kids to raise, one mentally challenged. Fear: of abandonment, the “what ifs,” of failing.

Enter my immediate family: two residences burned out by arson, my mother shot by a psychotic woman on drugs, various health scares and crises, and the diverse “normal” heartaches of death and divorce.

The term “it could never happen to me” was a lost platitude in our family. When one realizes that “it” can actually happen, one lives life a little jumpy, fearing what may lurk in the shadows. And voilà, the dangerous root of fear takes hold, watered by experience.Could fear be a generational sin? I believe so. Generations can pass down that spirit through actions and words.

In my case, “taking the edge off” with the wine was my way of coping with anxiety from work situations. Fear: of failure. I ran to the wine, instead of “casting my cares.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Hebrews 3:12-13 (NKJV) warns: Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God, but exhort one another daily, while it is called “today”, lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Breaking Free From Fear The spirit of fear is a stronghold. And, just like its enemy-author, it steals, kills, and destroys.But there is hope. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) encourages: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” And 1 John 4:18 (NKJV) exhorts: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.”When we trust in that perfect, unconditional love God offers us, our relationship with Him will be stronger than any fear we face. Building Trust in God and His Promises Fear of the unknown: Proverbs 3:5-6 Fear of the future/the “what ifs”: Psalm 112:7; Jeremiah 29:11 Fear of dying: Hebrews 2:14- 15 Fear of the diagnosis: Isaiah 53:5 Fear of failing: James 1:5Fear of others: Psalm 118:6Fear of loss: Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 34:17-19; 1 Thessalonians 4:1314 Fear of loneliness: Joshua 1:9 Fear of lack: Matthew 6:33 Fear of abandonment: Deuteronomy 31:6 Fear of rejection: Psalm 27:10 Fear of gossip:

Isaiah 54:17

Praise: Nothing pierces through the fog of fear like the power of praise, as we refocus on God who has “made a way” before and will do it again. (Isaiah 43:19)

Fear drives people to do crazy stuff, listen to people they shouldn’t, run from things they need to face, and even coerce others to do the same.

I don’t want to be that person.

I am determined to break all ties that have hindered my race and honor Jesus who paid a high price with His life to set me free.

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”—Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV).

When He Rises

Andrea Marino

From early on, I have sensed a ‘dark cloud’ around me, a type of melancholy, as to who I am and what on earth I was here for. Not to say the good things I attempted and accomplished were wrong, but there was a definite emptiness connected to them, a victory that never quite satisfied enough. On top of this were the trials and tribulations of life- ones that even broke my heart. And whenever good times came along (and there were many), seems something eventually showed up to ruin the joy- at least mar its fullness. Babies grow up, loved ones die, and seasons of change roll on. Any busy-ness I engaged in kept me on a merry-go-round of sorts so to try and avert the haunting question: ‘Is this all there is to life?’.

Absolute futility, says the Teacher. Everything is futile. What does a man gain for all his efforts that he labors at under the sun? …. All things are wearisome. The eye is not satisfied by seeing, or the ear filled with hearing.” Ecclesiastes 1:28. With Scripture like this, it’s hard to fight off the feeling of hopelessness. But God’s magnificent love is multifaceted. Extravagant, as it is tough in the sense of disciplined care, times of dark clouds, when you cannot figure out ‘why’what is going on and wish the whatever would simply go away are necessary. God desires us to gain a new perspective, an unseen realm beyond the mundane and the futile.

The book of Isaiah is often referred to as a ‘mini Bible’. There are prophecies to find concerning the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus that have already been fulfilled, as well as ones yet to be. It’s a book of hope, mercy and grace; and there is a warning of judgement to heed, namely the ‘Day of the Lord’, when His terror will rise. The prophet, Isaiah, calls the house of Jacob to walk in the Lord’s light, as they were full of divination, their land filled with silver and gold, and their strength in chariots of horses. This wake-up call to walk in the light of the Lord is not just for Israel, but for every nation. People will go into the caves of the rocks and crevices in the cliffs in order to try and escape the terror of the Lord. Isaiah 2:19,21. God’s judgment for sin is on the horizon. “And they said to the mountains and rocks, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of the one seated on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb, because the great day of Their wrath has come!’” Revelation 6:16. In the Day of the Lord, nothing is going to matter, not money, or power or underground bunkers. And the Good News is Jesus. There is no other Name by which we can be saved. God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him (putting their trust in Him) will not perish but will have eternal life. John 3:16

Eternity has been placed in every heart. Ecclesiastes 3:11. And there is a new, restored earth believers will inherit all because of the work of Jesus; His death for our sins, making new life possible. It was God all along that my heart had always longed for. He was the dark cloud surrounding me. In fact, the Lord’s feet stand upon a dark cloud. 2 Samuel 2:10-12, Psalm 18:9b. Honestly, if God hadn’t pursued me in such a seemingly odd way, or I had rejected His seemingly odd way I may never have come to know anything valuable and that provides complete joy to never end.

Karen Ruhl - San Clemente, CA

As former owner and creative director of two advertising agencies, Linda has years of experience creating a public impression of a product through the media using television commercials, radio and print advertising, press releases, and marketing campaigns.

Linda has been a caregiver for her son; a volunteer who travelled to Egypt and helped Sudanese refugees; a volunteer for a local food ministry, and a Creative Writing teacher for the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa for their Artists in the Schools program.

FEAR

By Linda Castro

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 KJV)

“The doctor said it is possibly not good.” My sister told me in tears, “They’re doing more tests.” This has been an ongoing fear of my sister. Whenever a doctor gives her a diagnosis of something she is not expecting, before they even get all the test results back, she experiences fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of the unexpected. Fear of something she can’t control. So she calls me.

I have experienced several bad diagnoses in my past, including cancer and a “so-called” incurable stomach condition. But I have learned the quotient of “Faith over Fear” and she knows I can encourage her, not from just words, but from actual personal experiences. God is more powerful than anything.

The Bible encourages us in John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

God’s Peace is not just for a medical condition. It is for employment situations; financial situations; family discord; and other situations we may be tempted into fear because we don’t feel in control. Some fear can become negative and cause stress in our bodies and cause us to panic. However, there is also a positive type of fear. When God may actually be giving us a “God feeling” motivating us to move to a place of safety in a situation that may have a dangerous outcome. So, all fear is not bad. It can be based upon trust.

Just as Jesus spoke to the disciples when they were in a boat and saw Jesus walking on he water toward them, their fear Immediately thought it was a ghost. But as Jesus calmed the situation and comforted them by saying “Take heart. It is I. Do not be afraid.” (Matthew 14:25-27) and Peter trusted Jesus and walked on the water, himself, until Peter allowed fear to take over and Peter began to sink. But Jesus saved him and the fear was gone.

So, fear can be a good thing or a bad thing. Sometimes, the negative fear seems to out weigh the positive fear but God always encourages us to look to Him for our understanding. Just as the cancer I had five years ago could have created a bad fear for me, God changed it. Just as my sister’s test results came back better than the doctor was anticipating and her fear was replaced with joy, every day the Lord reminds us in Psalm 118:24 “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

So every day we may have fear but every day we are encouraged to trust God and give any nega tive fear to Him and He will exchange it for His peace.

Mike Hall is completing his 46th year of teaching and has authored two collections of poetry, Autumn's Back Porch and Thinking Out Loud. More than forty of his poems have been published in various publications, including Solid Food Press, Clayjar Review, Foreshadow Magazine, Discretionary Love, and Pure in Heart Stories. He and his wife, Cynthia, live in the Dallas, Texas area.4

WINGS TO SOAR

BY MIKE HALL

If an eagle has wings, why stay in the nest?

Wasn’t it meant to soar through the sky?

Its flight the envy of ground-anchored souls

Dreaming to cut gravity’s chains and fly. Should my spirit aspire to anything less?

Wasn’t I made to rise above? to become more?

To leave the refuge and comfort of the nest;

To envision the dream . . . to take flight and soar.

What of those who would see me grounded?

Discouraging me to rise above the mundane, Who might clip my wings, so I can’t take flight; Or beat me down until the dream is slain.

Were they a casualty of fear and doubt?

Keeping them rooted, never to take a chance, Envious of those who would soar with their dreams, Dejected because they dared not fly into the expanse.

There will always be those who take no risks, But a select few will always dare to risk all.

To whom will I listen . . . with whom will I pair.

Will my spirit rise and expand? or be timid and small?

May my ears be deaf to those who would discourage.

May I be roused to soar with those daring few.

May I have a heart that will be fearless and bold.

May I have a spirit that will risk all in service to You.

WELCOMING THE LIGHT

BY MIKE HALL

The demons on my mind did weigh, Rending my soul with frenzied fright, Determined to extend their stay, To grip my heart and have their way. Out of sight, in the dead of night, They hunt with stealth their yearned for prey, No moon to give a hint of light, Prepared to pounce with beastly might. They seize and slash with sheer delight, This act, for them, a form of play. My fight to be free, to take flight, Looked to be an ill-fated plight. My will waned in this tragic fray, My last hope being dawn’s first light, To glimpse the sun on a new day. To this end, I took pause to pray. The dark flees from the welcome light, Its soul now gripped with dreadful fright.

I now soar in the sun’s bright rays, My day now filled with song and praise.

TWO HEARTS AS ONE BY MIKE

HALL

Two hearts beating as one –no longer separate . . . no longer alone

Two hearts joined and entwined –determined to be stronger together

Two hearts dancing in rhythm –joyous delight radiating from both

Two hearts in one accord –giving each other hope and love

Two hearts singing in harmony –creating sweet music together

Two hearts tenderly in tune –easing each other’s grief and pain

Two hearts held in each other’s hand –trusting the other to nurture and protect

Two hearts journeying together –eternally pledged and bound as one

Jodie Glardon has wanted to be a published author since she was seven years old. Around fifth grade, she submitted several poems to the Creative Communication poetry contest, and all of them won! Jodie is currently taking classes at Pellissippi State Community College and loves hiking, crochet, and piano in her spare time.

We at Faith On Every Corner have published another of Jodie’s poems Ungodly Influence which has been published on pureinheart.com

A Tribute to Nightbirde

By Jodie Glardon

It has now been five years since Jane Marczewski’s famous audition for America’s Got Talent. She is without a doubt one of the people who has influenced my life in the deepest way. Jane (who went by the stage name Nightbirde), received Simon Cowell’s Golden Buzzer for her soothing, dreamlike song “It’s O. K.”. Unlike other Golden Buzzers, however, Jane became somewhat of a cultural icon and a beautiful representation of hope, courage, and resilience in the face of tragedy. She was a very giving person, heavily involved in witnessing, evangelism and children’s ministry both through her church and in the community.

Her story, her strength, and her spirit resonated with millions. Her husband left her shortly after she had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. She wrote a song called “It’s O.K.” as a reminder to herself and others to never give up, and to learn how to accept your circumstances. One of her inspirational quotes is: “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy”. She also said: “If we wait until we have the perfect song, I don’t think we’ll ever sing. Don’t miss it—it’s now.” She passed away on February 19 th, 2022. She was 31 years old. Her family began the Nightbirde Foundation in her memory.

All this took place during a turbulent time in my late teenage years when I was pondering the meaning of life. I grew up in a home affected by domestic violence. I was facing the fact that maybe my family situation would never change and would never get better. Watching Jane’s infectious enthusiasm and “rebellious hope” as she called it, gave me a new outlook on life and changed the person that I was forever. After Jane passed, my younger brother and I were crushed. I felt deep down in my heart that since she hadn’t made it, that me and my family wouldn’t make it either. We were not going to come out of this intact. There was no hope for us.

Throughout my parent’s marriage, my father was adulterous. He never let go of his idols, plotted against us, and refused counseling or any accountability, all while claiming to be a deeply committed Christian. We would never have the family life of which I had dreamed. My mother had taught me much of what I knew about loss and courage and hope in hard times. However, now it suddenly felt likethis.

Throughout my parent’s marriage, my father was adulterous. He never let go of his idols, plotted against us, and refused counseling or any accountability, all whileclaiming to be a deeply committed Christian. We would never have the family life of which I had dreamed. My mother had taught me much of what I knew about loss and courage and hope in hard times. However, now it suddenly felt like this knowledge had come full circle. Instead of knowing in my head certain things that I had learned long ago, I was now seeing externally in action everything that was so beautiful in Jane’s hope and resilience. After processing Jane’s death, I realized something more fully that I had already known, but that to me seemed phenomenal and penetrated to the core of my existence. It is not about reaching the desired earthly destination that matters. It is about reaching a heavenly destination. It is about letting God’s ways be your ways. It is about letting God shape your story. There are many things you may go through. It could be an illness, a death in the family, financial struggles, abuse, family strife, or any other seemingly insurmountable obstacle. It is your attitude and determination during the journey that indicates whether you have lost or whether you have won. If you have this attitude, even so-called failures can be viewed as successes. Jane didn’t lose her cancer battle, she won it. Even if the road back from hardship can only be taken through baby steps, each step in the right direction is always something to be celebrated. God wants us to take it one day at a time as we walk in His presence. Sometimes, the road isn’t back at all, but we must continue to go forward, knowing that we are not alone.

The author and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said that “life is a journey, not a destination.” Some might take this to mean that the journey is the destination. While his quote seems to attract many New-Age devotees, I prefer to say that the journey is not the destination in and of itself, but that the journey in turn makes the destination. It is who you journey with that matters. When the Holy Spirit is working in your life, your journey is spirit-led---thus your final destination is not of this world.

In the end, having our pain taken away and our problems resolved is not the definition of success. What matters most is how hard you tried, whether you kept the song in your heart, whether you kept your devotion to Christ, whether you chose each day to let God turn your broken, shattered life into a brilliant, shining testimony for Him. Life is fragile and often takes many twists and turns. Through it all, let us be the birds who sing in the darkness of the night, even when there seems to be no hope. As Jane said, “I want to be the bird that sings in anticipation of the good things that I trust are coming”. Let us be the ones who, no matter what our circumstances may be, reflect God’s love and light to those around us.

Publisher & Editor in Chief: Karen Ruhl

Photography: Karen Ruhl (unless otherwise credited)

Staff Writers: Karen Ruhl

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