A Beginner’s Guide to Preterist Theology

January 29, 2025 By Lee Ann B. Marino

The book of Revelation continues to fascinate readers, generation after generation. Even those who aren’t religious or very interested in Bible study take an interest in Revelation. The drama of its contents: heavenly signs and wonders, natural drama, government corruption, and the ultimate fall of evil powers captivates audiences worldwide. For those who read it carefully, many walk away wondering, how does this all play out – and in the long run, what does it mean? Contrary to what many... Read more

Why Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment

January 22, 2025 By Lee Ann B. Marino

“Mercy” isn’t one of those words we hear much today. It’s a Biblical idea that we like applied to ourselves, but we don’t understand it well enough to see it through to others. When something is wrong, we prefer judgment: something that executes the full extent of the law to right the wrong. But mercy – something divine given out of need, rather than retribution – teaches us far more about ourselves. In this column, we will be looking at... Read more

When You Pray, Move Your Feet: Prayer in Action

January 15, 2025 By Lee Ann B. Marino

Most of us look around and see massive changes to the world. Things that were unfathomable maybe 30 or 40 years ago are commonplace now. There are a number of different responses to these changes, but most people aren’t sure how to handle them. Many turn to prayer, Scripture, or social activism to solve the perceived issues. Even more are uncertain as to what to do in these situations, in times when we need to move from prayer to action... Read more

Nine Faith-Building Activities to Start the New Year

January 8, 2025 By Lee Ann B. Marino

January is here, and it’s officially 2025! If you’re anything like me, it’s hard to fathom we are here. Twenty-five years ago, most of us thought the world would end long before now. It’s a true testimony to God that we are still here, with new opportunities to live our faith and spread the Gospel in this new year. That being said, why not take some time to think of some fun faith-building activities that will help take us through... Read more

Ten Spiritual Resolutions to Make in This New Year

December 31, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

It’s the time of year when people put away their Christmas decorations and drag out the exercise equipment. For around 63% of Americans, New Year’s resolutions are the way to go. Whether it’s pursuing better health, going back to school, saving money, undertaking a better work/life balance, or finding a new career, New Year’s resolutions set the tone for a good portion of January’s economics, our conversations, and thoughts. Every one of us wants to be better in one form... Read more

Exploring the Concept of a Spiritual Parent

December 20, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

Spiritual parents” are all the rave in some Christian circles. Used to define everything from a spiritual leader, to a mentor, to someone influential in life, “spiritual parent” is applied in different ways. What are spiritual parents, and how are they distinguished from other forms of spiritual leadership? For understanding and clarity, we will explore what a spiritual parent and personal spiritual leader (sometimes called a “covering”) are – and their differences. Spiritual leadership A spiritual leader is someone who,... Read more

Five Ways to Handle Christmas Blues

December 20, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

It’s the time of year when it can easily feel like happiness and joy are compulsory. If you’re not feeling particularly joyful at Christmastime, that can cause a number of feelings, from being left out to forcing responses that aren’t real. Having the Christmas blues can be difficult, especially with the pace that’s moving all around us. While many see this as a time of year to visit family, friends, exchange gifts, and echo long-standing traditions, that’s not everyone’s story.... Read more

Ten Fun Holiday Trivia Facts to Get the Party Started!

December 18, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

For a time of the year that most celebrate, the average person doesn’t know much about the holiday season. There’s an entire world of interesting facts, thoughts, and trivia surrounding the holiday season. Whether preparing for a great game of holiday trivia or just being a trivia buff, here we present ten fun holiday trivia facts to help start the party this holiday season! Christmas was not always celebrated in December In a column I wrote last year, I pointed... Read more

Enjoying Ten Unusual December Holidays

December 11, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

It’s that time of year again! Most people are familiar with the Christmas holiday, even if celebrating it isn’t their thing. Christmas, however, isn’t the only thing going on at this time of the year. As I explored in my column last year, there are a number of unusual December holidays that many don’t know much about. The end of the year is about a number of different observances, including those that relate to life, death, spirituality, self-expression, and cultural... Read more

Listening to the Whispers of Hope

December 4, 2024 By Lee Ann B. Marino

For Christians worldwide, the advancing Christmas season is met with a quiet pause to wait. The idea of waiting isn’t anyone’s favorite pastime, yet it’s something we do throughout our Christian lives. As we wait the annual celebration of Christ’s incarnation, we’re reminded of the different periods throughout salvation history where God’s people had to wait. In those moments where we desire word, direction, or insight most, we are often told to wait. And as hard of times as often... Read more