The Best is Yet to Come: A Christian Perspective

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Mark Cole

Have you ever heard someone say, “The best is yet to come”? It’s a hopeful statement, but as Christians, is it true? What does the Bible say about our future and God’s plans for us?

The answer is a resounding yes! For those who follow Christ, the best truly is yet to come—not just in this life, but for eternity. Let’s explore some key Bible passages that affirm this hope.

1. A Heavenly Home Awaits Us

Jesus promised that our ultimate “best” lies in eternity with Him.

  • John 14:2-3:
    “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am.”

This assurance reminds us that no matter what we face today, an eternal home is being prepared for us. And that home is free from pain, tears, and death.

  • Revelation 21:3-4:
    “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. … He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”

This promise gives us hope beyond the struggles of this world.

2. God is Still Working in Us

Even now, God is shaping us and preparing us for greater things.

  • Philippians 1:6:
    “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

As long as we’re alive, God isn’t finished with us. He’s transforming us daily to reflect His character.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18:
    “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”

Our trials are temporary, but God’s work in us is eternal.

3. Abundant Life is Found in Christ

Jesus didn’t just save us for heaven—He gives us abundant life here and now.

  • John 10:10:
    “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

When we walk with Christ, we experience His joy, peace, and purpose, even in the midst of challenges.

4. Future Glory Outweighs Present Trials

The Bible assures us that the glory awaiting us far outweighs the difficulties we face today.

  • Romans 8:18:
    “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Whatever hardships you face, they’re temporary compared to the eternal rewards awaiting us.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:9:
    “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love Him.”

God’s plans for us are beyond anything we can imagine.

5. God’s Faithfulness Gives Us Hope

God’s plans are always good, even when we don’t fully understand them.

  • Jeremiah 29:11:
    “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

This verse, spoken to the exiles in Babylon, reminds us that God’s character is faithful, and His intentions for us are full of hope.

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

Living with the belief that “the best is yet to come” transforms how we face life. It gives us courage in trials, peace in uncertainty, and hope for the future. Whether we’re experiencing blessings or challenges, we can trust that God’s work in and through us is leading to something greater.

For believers, this hope isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s rooted in the promises of Scripture. As we keep our eyes on Jesus, we can confidently proclaim: the best is truly yet to come.

What do you think? Does this phrase encourage you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Timeless Principles for a Life Well Lived

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Mark Cole

The Bible offers timeless principles for living a life of purpose, peace, and fulfillment. These principles, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments, can guide believers to live in alignment with God’s will. Here are some of the key principles:

1. Love God and Love Others

  • Great Commandment:
    “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39)
    Loving God wholeheartedly and loving others selflessly are foundational.

2. Seek First God’s Kingdom

  • Prioritize God’s Will:
    “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
    Make God’s purposes your top priority, trusting Him to meet your needs.

3. Walk Humbly and Act Justly

  • Micah’s Summary of Godly Living:
    “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
    This verse encapsulates God’s call to live a life of integrity, compassion, and humility.

4. Be Transformed by the Word

  • Renew Your Mind:
    “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
    Spend time in Scripture and prayer to align your thoughts with God’s truth.

5. Bear the Fruit of the Spirit

  • Exhibit Christlike Character:
    “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
    Cultivate these traits through a relationship with the Holy Spirit.

6. Practice Forgiveness

  • Let Go of Offenses:
    “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
    Forgiveness frees your heart and reflects God’s grace.

7. Be a Servant

  • Follow Christ’s Example:
    “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)
    A heart of service glorifies God and blesses others.

8. Live by Faith

  • Trust in God’s Plan:
    “For we live by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
    Trust God even when you don’t fully understand His ways.

9. Be Generous

  • Give Freely:
    “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)
    Generosity reflects God’s heart and blesses both giver and receiver.

10. Stay Grateful

  • Cultivate Gratitude:
    “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
    Gratitude keeps your heart focused on God’s goodness.

11. Be a Peacemaker

  • Promote Peace and Reconciliation:
    “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
    Pursue harmony in relationships and in your community.

12. Keep an Eternal Perspective

  • Focus on What Matters Most:
    “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2)
    Living with eternity in mind shapes your priorities and decisions.

By following these principles, believers can live lives that honor God, bless others, and experience His peace and joy. Which of these principles resonates most with you?

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How to Pray Effectively for Healing

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Mark Cole

What does the Bible say about effective prayer for healing? Scripture provides several principles that guide us in praying with power and faith. Here’s how you can align your prayers with God’s Word for the best outcomes.

1. Pray with Faith

“And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.” (James 5:15)

Faith is foundational to prayer. Jesus repeatedly emphasized the role of faith in healing, telling those He healed, “Your faith has made you well.” (Matthew 9:22, Mark 5:34). When you pray for healing, approach God with trust in His power and His goodness.

2. Seek Righteousness

“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” (James 5:16b)

Living a life that pleases God strengthens your prayers. Confessing sins and turning away from unrighteousness aligns your heart with His will. As Psalm 66:18 reminds us, unconfessed sin can hinder prayers.

3. Follow Biblical Practices

“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14)

The Bible encourages believers to involve church leaders in prayer for healing. Anointing with oil, as a symbolic act of faith and dedication, is a biblical practice that invites God’s presence.

4. Pray in Unity

“If two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:19)

There is power in unified prayer. Whether it’s a small group or an entire church body, collective prayer brings spiritual strength. As Jesus said, when two or more gather in His name, He is present (Matthew 18:20).

5. Be Persistent

“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Sometimes healing doesn’t come immediately. Jesus taught persistence in prayer through the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8). Keep praying and trusting in God’s timing.

6. Include Thanksgiving

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

Gratitude demonstrates faith. Thank God for His goodness and His promises, even before you see the results. This shifts your focus from the problem to the Healer.

7. Pray in Jesus’ Name

“If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14)

Praying in Jesus’ name isn’t just a formula—it’s about aligning your prayers with His character and will. When you pray for healing, you’re appealing to His authority and power.

8. Lay Hands on the Sick

“They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16:18)

The act of laying hands on someone while praying for healing is a biblical practice that symbolizes the transfer of God’s power and compassion. Jesus and His disciples often healed this way.

9. Surrender to God’s Will

“Not my will, but yours, be done.” (Luke 22:42)

While we are encouraged to pray boldly for healing, we must also trust in God’s sovereignty. Sometimes His plan includes delays, lessons, or even a different kind of healing—one that affects the spirit more than the body (Romans 8:28).

10. Confess and Forgive

“Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16a)

Confession and forgiveness clear the way for God’s healing power. Whether it’s reconciling with others or seeking God’s forgiveness, removing spiritual barriers is crucial (Matthew 6:14-15).

11. Trust God’s Timing

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Healing may not happen in the way or time we expect. Some healing is immediate, while other times it’s a gradual process. In all circumstances, trust that God’s timing is perfect.

Final Thoughts

Praying for healing is an act of faith, surrender, and trust in God’s promises. By incorporating these biblical principles—faith, righteousness, unity, persistence, and more—you can pray effectively and powerfully. Remember, the ultimate purpose of prayer is not just to receive healing but to draw closer to God, trusting in His love and sovereignty.

No matter the outcome, keep your eyes on Him, knowing that He is the ultimate healer and sustainer.

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What Does It Mean To Be A Servant of Christ?

Posted on November 13, 2024 by Mark Cole

Paul often describes himself as a “slave” (or “servant”) of Christ, showing his deep sense of commitment and submission to Jesus as his master. This idea appears across several of his letters, emphasizing that following Christ involves willingly yielding one’s life to God’s purposes. Here are some key passages:

1. Romans 1:1 – “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God.”

– Here, Paul opens the letter by calling himself a *doulos* (Greek for “slave” or “bondservant”) of Jesus, emphasizing his total dedication to serving Christ.

2. 1 Corinthians 7:22 – “For the one who was a slave when called to faith in the Lord is the Lord’s freed person; similarly, the one who was free when called is Christ’s slave.”

– Paul reminds believers that regardless of their social status, they are all “slaves” of Christ, implying that they belong to Jesus, who has redeemed them.

3. Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

– Paul stresses that his ultimate allegiance is to Christ, not to people, describing his life as one committed to serving his Lord.

4. Philippians 1:1 – “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons.”

– In his greeting to the church in Philippi, Paul refers to both himself and Timothy as servants of Christ, acknowledging their roles as committed followers of Jesus.

5. Romans 6:22 – “But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.”

– Paul explains that believers, once enslaved to sin, are now slaves to God, which leads to a life of holiness and the ultimate reward of eternal life.

6. 2 Corinthians 4:5 – “For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.”

– Here, Paul describes his ministry as one where he and his companions are “servants” to others for the sake of Jesus, again using the concept of servanthood or slavery to express his dedication.

Paul’s references to being a “slave” of Christ represent a profound commitment. For him, this wasn’t a burden but a joyous and willing submission to God’s love and grace, recognizing Jesus as his ultimate authority and master. This devotion was at the core of his identity and ministry.

Have you ever considered joining Paul in declaring, “I am a servant (or slave) of Christ”? Years ago, I told the Lord that I was His slave—I committed to go where He wants me to go, say what He wants me to say, and do what He wants me to do. This level of total submission and trust allows God to work through you in ways far beyond anything you could ever imagine.

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What Does It Mean To ‘Live Like Jesus’?

Posted on November 8, 2024 by Mark Cole

In the Gospel of John, a powerful message is delivered in 1 John 2:6: “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.” This profound statement sets a foundational principle for followers of Jesus, encouraging us to model our lives after the teachings and example of Christ. But what does it mean to live like Jesus in everyday life? Let’s explore this idea through key principles and actions.

Love and Compassion (John 13:34-35):

  • Living like Jesus involves embodying love and compassion. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands His followers to love one another as He has loved them. This selfless love becomes a defining characteristic of a follower’s everyday interactions, extending beyond personal circles to include even those considered difficult to love.

Humility and Servanthood (Philippians 2:3-8):

  • Jesus, the embodiment of humility, washed His disciples’ feet, setting an example of servanthood. Philippians 2:3-8 encourages believers to adopt a humble mindset, considering others as more significant than themselves. This humility is expressed through acts of service and a willingness to put others’ needs first.

Faith and Trust in God (Matthew 6:25-34):

  • Jesus displayed unwavering faith and trust in God, even in the face of challenges. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus teaches about trusting in God’s provision and not worrying about tomorrow. Followers are called to live with a deep trust in God, seeking His guidance in all aspects of life.

Moral Integrity (Matthew 5:27-30):

  • Jesus emphasized moral integrity, challenging His followers to go beyond external actions to address matters of the heart. In Matthew 5:27-30, Jesus discusses the importance of purity in thought and action. Followers strive for moral excellence, aligning their actions with biblical principles.

Generosity and Sharing (Luke 6:38):

  • Jesus frequently spoke about generosity and giving. In Luke 6:38, He encourages a generous spirit, promising that the measure one uses will be measured to them. Followers embody generosity by sharing their resources, time, and care with those in need.

Prayer and Spiritual Discipline (Matthew 6:6):

  • Jesus, a man of prayer, spent time in communion with God. In Matthew 6:6, He teaches about the importance of private prayer. Followers prioritize regular prayer and engage in spiritual disciplines to deepen their relationship with God.

Community and Fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25):

  • Jesus built a community of followers, emphasizing the importance of fellowship. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, prioritizing regular gatherings and mutual encouragement within the faith community.

Evangelism and Discipleship (Matthew 28:19-20):

  • Jesus commissioned His followers to spread the good news and make disciples. In Matthew 28:19-20, known as the Great Commission, believers are called to make disciples of all nations. Followers actively engage in evangelism and discipleship, sharing their faith and helping others grow in their relationship with God.

Conclusion:
Living like Jesus goes beyond mere words; it’s a daily commitment to embodying the values and teachings of Christ. As followers strive to live in God, they reflect the transformative power of Jesus’ example in their love, humility, faith, integrity, generosity, prayer, community, and mission. By aligning their lives with the principles Jesus lived, believers fulfill the mandate to be Christ’s representatives in the world.

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How Do We Keep Our Eyes on Jesus?

Posted on November 7, 2024 by Mark Cole

The race of life is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Hebrews 12 encourages us to “run with endurance the race God has set before us.” But the key to this endurance lies in the phrase that follows: “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” So how do we keep our eyes on Him, especially in a world full of distractions?

1. Prioritize Daily Time in the Word

Jesus is the Word made flesh, so one of the most direct ways to keep our eyes on Him is to spend daily time in Scripture. By setting aside moments each day to read and reflect on His words, we build a stronger foundation for our faith and gain renewed focus. A practical approach is to follow a reading plan that ensures you’re diving into both Old and New Testaments, the Psalms, and Proverbs. This daily rhythm aligns our hearts with His truth and keeps our thoughts centered on Him.

2. Cultivate a Strong Prayer Life

Prayer is where we bring our praises, burdens, and confessions to Jesus. To keep our eyes on Him, we can aim to speak with Him regularly, not only in set prayer times but throughout the day. Developing this habit keeps our hearts in close communion with Him. As we ask for His guidance, thank Him for His blessings, and seek His strength in our weaknesses, we grow more aware of His presence in every situation.

3. Serve Others with His Love in Mind

Jesus lived a life of love, compassion, and sacrifice, and He calls us to do the same. When we serve others, we are effectively “looking” to Jesus by imitating His actions. Service pulls our focus away from ourselves and aligns us with Christ’s character. Look for small ways to serve daily – whether through words of encouragement, acts of kindness, or a helping hand. As we serve, we remember that Jesus is our model and our strength.

4. Seek Community with Fellow Believers

Fellowship with other believers reminds us of Jesus’ presence in a tangible way. A strong, supportive community can keep us focused on Him, especially when life gets tough. Attend church, join a Bible study, or meet regularly with friends who encourage you in your faith. Accountability, prayer, and shared experiences within a faith community can help keep our eyes from drifting and remind us of our shared purpose.

5. Regularly Reflect on His Sacrifice and Love

When we remember Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for us, we’re drawn back to the depth of His love. Taking communion regularly is one powerful way to do this, but so is simply spending time meditating on His sacrifice and what it means. Reflecting on His love and grace reminds us of the lengths He went to bring us close to Him and keeps our hearts in awe.

6. Anchor Your Hopes in His Promises

It’s easy to get distracted by worry, doubt, or temporary pleasures. But the promises of Jesus can anchor us. When we’re tempted to stray, recalling His promises provides a focus point: His promise of eternal life, His unending love, His presence through every trial. His promises are like a light on the horizon, and keeping them in our hearts keeps us steady.

7. Rejoice in Worship

Worship fixes our gaze upward. As we worship, we remember Jesus’ majesty and goodness. Whether through song, art, or acts of gratitude, worship shifts our focus from ourselves to God. Make worship a daily practice, and let it remind you that Jesus is worthy of our complete attention and adoration.

Final Thought

In a world filled with distractions, Hebrews 12 reminds us of our need to focus on Jesus, “the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.” Keeping our eyes on Him is a discipline, a choice we make each day. But as we do, we find ourselves strengthened, encouraged, and prepared to run the race set before us with renewed endurance and hope.

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What Does the New Testament Teach About Healing?

Posted on November 6, 2024 by Mark Cole

The New Testament’s teachings on healing revolve around Jesus’ ministry, which emphasized healing as a demonstration of God’s kingdom, and the practices of His apostles, Peter and Paul, who continued this work in the early church. Here’s a breakdown of the perspectives and practices on healing by each:

1. Jesus’ Teaching and Practice of Healing

  • Healing as a Sign of the Kingdom: Jesus saw healing as part of His mission to bring God’s kingdom to earth. He often announced that the “kingdom of God” had come near (Matthew 4:23, Luke 4:18–19), and His miracles were proof of this reality. Healing, exorcisms, and miracles were signs of God’s power to overcome sin, sickness, and even death.
  • Compassion and Faith: Jesus’ healings were often motivated by compassion (Matthew 14:14) and faith from the person seeking healing or others interceding on their behalf (Matthew 8:5–13, Mark 5:34). His healings reflected God’s deep love and desire for people to be whole.
  • Variety of Healing Methods: Jesus healed in diverse ways—by speaking, touching, using mud, or simply giving a command (John 9:6–7, Mark 7:33–35). This variety shows His authority over physical conditions and suggests there isn’t a single method or formula for healing.
  • Forgiveness of Sin and Healing: Jesus often linked healing with the forgiveness of sins (Mark 2:1–12), emphasizing that God’s care involves both physical and spiritual restoration.

2. Peter’s Teaching and Practice on Healing

  • Miraculous Healings in Acts: After Jesus’ ascension, Peter continued to heal in Jesus’ name. In Acts 3:6–8, Peter heals a man crippled from birth, affirming that it was “in the name of Jesus Christ” that the man was healed. Peter’s acts demonstrate that Jesus’ power and authority extended beyond His earthly ministry.
  • Healing as a Witness to Jesus’ Resurrection: Peter’s healings were a powerful testimony to Jesus’ resurrection and lordship. For instance, the healing of Aeneas in Acts 9:32–35 and the raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead in Acts 9:36–42 both resulted in many people turning to faith in Jesus.
  • Healing by Faith and Prayer: Peter often emphasized that it was faith in Jesus’ name that brought healing (Acts 3:16). His ministry highlights that healing is available through the same power that raised Christ from the dead.

3. Paul’s Teaching and Practice on Healing

  • Healings in His Missionary Journeys: Paul healed the sick throughout his journeys. In Acts 14:8–10, he heals a man crippled from birth in Lystra by seeing that the man had “faith to be healed.” Like Peter, Paul’s healings authenticated his apostleship and demonstrated God’s kingdom.
  • Use of Spiritual Gifts: In 1 Corinthians 12:9, Paul lists “gifts of healing” as one of the spiritual gifts given to believers. He taught that healing could be part of the church’s ministry through the Holy Spirit and that these gifts were meant to build up the church.
  • Reliance on Prayer: Paul relied heavily on prayer for healing, as seen in his letters (e.g., Philippians 4:6–7, 1 Thessalonians 5:17). While he often witnessed miraculous healing, Paul also experienced times when healing didn’t occur immediately (as in the case of his “thorn in the flesh” in 2 Corinthians 12:7–9), teaching that God’s grace and strength are sufficient even when physical healing isn’t granted.

Key Principles from the New Testament on Healing

  • Faith and the Name of Jesus: Healing is grounded in faith in Jesus and His authority (Acts 3:16, James 5:15).
  • Prayer and Anointing: James encourages believers to call on the elders of the church to pray over the sick and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord, promising that “the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick” (James 5:14–15).
  • God’s Sovereignty: Not every prayer for healing results in immediate restoration, and sometimes believers are called to endure suffering, trusting God’s grace. Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” reflects that God sometimes uses suffering for spiritual growth and strength (2 Corinthians 12:9).
  • Healing as Part of the Gospel Mission: Healing was integral to Jesus’ and the apostles’ ministry as they preached the gospel, showing God’s compassion and power. In Matthew 10:1 and Luke 9:1–2, Jesus specifically gave His disciples authority to heal as they went out to share the gospel.

Summary

The New Testament presents healing as a vital sign of God’s kingdom breaking into the world, a reflection of Jesus’ compassion, and an affirmation of faith in His name. For Jesus, Peter, and Paul, healing testified to God’s love and power, showing that He cares for both physical and spiritual needs. The New Testament also balances this with the idea that God’s purposes sometimes include allowing suffering and that God’s grace is enough, even when physical healing isn’t granted.

My related blogs and testimony:

Can God Touch A Nation?

Does Jesus Still Heal People?

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Working On My ‘Bucket List’

Posted on November 1, 2024 by Mark Cole

Years ago I decided to make a ‘Bucket List’. One of my favourite items on this to-do-list was to try every form of transportation there is. From road travel to off-road travel, air travel, sea travel to animal travel. I wanted to try it all.

So far I have done great train rides and bus rides all over the world. I have also tried snowmobiles, snow shoes trips, cross-country skis trips, jet skis, cruise liners, canoes, prop planes, jet planes, helicopters, scuba diving, submarines and a host of other forms of transportation.

One of my favourite forms of travel to try has been my animal travel list. This list has included camels, ostriches, horses, oxen, dog sled teams and elephants. Here is a pic of the beginning of my camel ride on the beach in Mombasa, Kenya (with my young son, Josh, and Linda Criss).

On another trip, I got to ride an ostrich on a farm in South Africa. They are bizarre animals and you steer them by holding onto their necks and pointing their heads in the direction you want to go. The team that I was travelling with even got to do a mini race with them in the corral.

I love riding horses. One time, while touring with a band, I got to ride in South Africa at a Christian retreat centre called El Mirador. There were around a dozen of us who got to ride throughout the countryside and see African villages in the Drakensberg Mountains. It was a such a fun experience! My horse was the owner’s personal horse and he was quite fast. On the way back, the horses that my friend, Ross, and I were riding on, took off home. It was great. I love riding on a horse at full gallop.

That was until some Africans suddenly crossed the path in front of us and both of our horses suddenly swerved and threw us off at a full gallop. Ouch! Fortunately, we only had a few scrapes and bruises from the incident. But I can still remember Ross hanging upside down from his horse until he finally let go. That was a little scary!

Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa.

Another time, my wife, Anna, and I went dog sledding for our wedding anniversary. We drove up to Canmore, Alberta, Canada and did a great winter ride around Sprey Lakes in -20 C weather. What a cool experience (literally)! I even got to hook up the team and drive it.

The dogs just love to run! If you are a dog owner, I know you can relate. Just think about what happens when you ask your dog if they want to go for a walk? Now, multiply that by 6 dogs! They almost ripped the sled out of my hands when they took off! What a great ride!

Dog sledding in Canmore

Dog sledding in Canmore- Anna is in the sled!

A few years ago, Anna and I to got to ride an elephant in Thailand. So cool! They are amazing animals. They are so powerful that you really don’t control them. You just ask them to cooperate! I was very proud of Anna, she is usually not up for that kind of adventure, but she did great!

Elephant ride 2

Here’s the link to my full ‘Bucket List‘.

Question: Do you have ‘Bucket List’? What things do you still want to do before you ‘kick the bucket’? Have you ever had a wild ride on an animal?

Check out my new book: “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’. It is now available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

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In Praise Of A Great Wife!

Posted on October 31, 2024 by Mark Cole

Recently, in my private devotions, I was reading Proverbs 31 about the qualities of a great wife. The Proverbs 31 woman is kind, generous, godly and hard working. I was reminded that I have a great wife!

EPSON MFP image

God brought Anna into my life 42 years ago. She was the cute little Italian girl singing in the church choir. I had this prayer request list of 19 things that I was praying for in a wife. She has fulfilled all of those 19 things and much more in our wonderful marriage together. 

It has been great to grow together, laugh together, cry together and see the world together. She has been an amazing friend, mother and now grandmother. Or as our grandkids, Berea, Ezra and Josephine call her, ‘Nonni’!

Many Christmas’s we get to hang out with our whole immediate family for a week in our home. We all love being together. And I give a large part of that credit to Anna. She is the glue that holds the family together. She is the one who is always putting together great meals. She is the one who is always phoning the kids. She loves to look after her family. She has a great servant’s heart! Her love for me, the kids and grandkids is amazing.

So, I raise a toast to my beautiful wife and all the great wives out there. Husbands, we are blessed to have such great women in our lives! I am blessed to have my cute little Italian wife, Anna, in my life! Here is a toast to many more decades together! I am excited to see what God has next for us!

Check out my new book.. “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’ available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

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Do Angels Fix Flat Tires?

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Mark Cole

A number of years ago, I was driving to church with my family on a Sunday morning. We were zooming down our local freeway at 110 km/hr (70 mi/hr) when all of a sudden I spotted an aluminium ladder strewn across the freeway in my path. I couldn’t avoid it and within seconds I drove across it and it popped one of my tires immediately.

flat tire

I quickly pulled over to the side of the freeway and spotted the pick-up truck that had dropped the ladder. I was in a hurry. I was heading to a choir rehearsal, so I quickly told my wife, Anna, to get the insurance info from the pick-up driver and I would change the tire.

Within five minutes we were back on the road and heading to church. As I pulled into the church parking lot, two more of my tires went flat. I didn’t even have time to even worry about it. My rehearsal was starting in a few minutes.

At the end of the rehearsal, before the first service began, an older man came up to me and asked if he could fix my tires for me. I was elated to get some help and quickly gave him my keys. At the end of the second service, this gentleman came up to me, returned my keys and informed me that the work had been done. All three of my tires had been fixed.

Wow! I thanked him profusely and then asked him how much I owed him. He kindly said that it was his gift. There was no charge. Double wow! What an amazing act of kindness!

The strange part of the story is that I had never met the man before that and I never saw him again after. Who was this kindly gentleman who came to my rescue? Could he have been an angel in disguise?

I was reminded of this verse in Hebrews: Angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. – Hebrews 1:14.  

I have often felt God’s hand of protection and supply in my life. But that was the only time it was as tangible as fixing three flat tires. And whether this man was a heavenly being or earthy being, either way, he was an angel!

Question: Have you ever had an angel encounter? Have you ever felt God’s protection?

Check out my new book.. “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’ available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

Angel story from Terry Naude (New Zealand):

In 1992, on a Saturday afternoon, four men came into my factory with intent to rob and harm me. I was alone and they said they wanted work… highly unlikely. As they were about to go for me, a car came screeching up to the factory door. A man who I knew by the name of Mike ran into the factory shouting at these men and told them to leave…they ran off at high-speed. Mike said he was in the area and needed to pop in. With that, and me oh so grateful, off he went.

I saw Mike on the Monday and when I thanked him again for his help, he looked at me as if I’d lost my mind. He walked away with that look in his eyes, ‘This guys lost it!’

It was only this year I realized that was an angel in Mikes form that saved my life that day. Blessings…. Terry Naude

Angel story from Georgia Martin (Calgary, Canada):

In 1986 I was headed back to work, northbound along McLeod Trail. I had just passed through the intersection of McLeod Trail and Heritage Drive and I was in the left median lane. As I headed up the slight hill over the railroad tracks a car on the other side of the median lost control, hit the median, went airborne and hit the car directly in front of me, right into the windshield!!!

Glass, metal, tires flew into the air and went right over my car….I turned my steering wheel hard right and found myself on the right shoulder of the road, no harm to me or my vehicle….not too surprising under normal circumstances, however, it was rush hour traffic, with 3 full lanes of traffic, bumper to bumper!!!

No one was hit, my car was untouched!! I had been listening to Amy Grant’s “Angels Watching Over Me” I believe an angel lifted me over the other cars somehow without being touched! God is good and there is no predicting what He will do when He moves on behalf of His children.

Posted in Church, God Adventures, Travel | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments