Area libraries can be a great source of information about local and regional Ozarks history! Whether you’re a native wanting to know more about how your ancestors lived, or new to the area and curious about the origins of local legends, you can often find resources at the library. This month, check out some great offerings from our neighbors to the north, the Local History and Genealogy Department of the Springfield/Greene County Library. The “Preserving the Ozarks” series

Studying the books of Ezra and Nehemiah recently, I’m amazed at the relevance of the Old Testament today. Obviously, many prophetic writings are applicable, but there are valuable principles in the historical books as well. In addition to pointing in some way to Jesus, they can provide insight for our daily living. This week, I read about Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, which had been reduced to rubble by the Babylonian conquest. Although Ezra’s work had reinst

This year marks the 68th anniversary of National Library week, celebrated this year from April 19 through 25. If you haven’t celebrated yet, it’s not too late to plan a trip to your local library or a special time of reading with children or grandchildren. This year’s theme is “Find Your Joy,” highlighting the joy that comes from the services, books and special programming provided by community libraries. Key dates during the week have included “Right to Read Day” on April

Has anyone else noticed that many people seem to think they should comment on anything and everything, regardless of whether it is actually their business or whether they have anything constructive to say? I’m not talking about well-written letters to the editor or commentary shared on public pages; rather, I’m referring to those people who jump right in to criticize news shared by others, without taking time to actually read the posted information and learn more about the si

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about maintenance. My husband and I are blessed to have a paid-for place to live and a couple of reasonably decent paid-for vehicles. While we are immensely thankful to be in that situation, we are also keenly aware that just because you have something, that doesn’t mean it’s entirely and forever trouble-free. We have a special section in our budget for our home, for example—insurance, pest control, regular maintenance visits by the HVAC pr

These days, one can’t be too careful when navigating social media, email, or those dreaded spam/scam robo-calls. Although all people face safety risks that affect their well-being, older individuals may be particularly susceptible and at higher risks due to physical, mental, or learning changes related to aging. Learn to navigate those risks and “Be Aware to Prepare,” by joining Sergeant J.J. Goulbourne of the Kimberling City Police Department to participate in the May 13

I’m fascinated with my current study of the Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which describe the return of the Jewish exiles to their homeland. As often happens, I’m also finding parallels with current events, plus applications to my own life. Ezra opens with the amazing story of God’s timing for the return, just as prophesied; the support received from King Cyrus of the Persian empire, including retrieval of Temple objects seized years earlier by Nebuchadnezzar; a

Since my regular Bible study has a “weekend wrap-up” without introducing new material, I enjoy spending part of my weekend devotional time in the Psalms and Proverbs. Reading Psalm 27 recently, I could still quote some of the verses I memorized as a child, including v. 1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?” (NIV) For years, that verse gave me comfort in scary situations ranging from Kansas torn

But which of us are worthy, in our own power, of God’s attention? Have I taken Jesus’ work of atonement for granted? And when I receive a special blessing or answer to prayer, do I thank Him?

Even without the current Middle East considerations, Purim is an encouraging reminder of the faithfulness of God.

And no, this little book does not bash modern worship music. It does, however, challenge readers to make sure what we are singing is truly sing-able and accessible to all worshipers

This column previously reviewed a riveting novel by Liz Lazarus, in which the main character navigates the continued fear and the twists and turns of the legal system following a vicious attack. Now, the Atlanta-based author delivers her fourth novel, a psychological thriller in which a ruthless and treacherous boyfriend-turned-stalker embroils a daughter in a battle for guardianship of her elderly mother. “Dawn Before Darkness” is the story of Dawn Smith, a veterinarian

In spite of all that, Paul encourages the Philippians to rejoice. Why? Because “the Lord is near!” Our hope is for eternity, so our rejoicing should be “in the Lord,” regardless of this life’s circumstances.

Mixing cultures while trying to keep everyone happy had led to some poor theology in the Corinthian church; a major part of Paul’s letter was to return the focus to Jesus.

One of the difficult parts of aging, or of caring for a parent or other elderly relative, is the decision about whether the person can, or should, continue living in their home. About 75% of seniors express the desire to stay in their home, even when they cannot fully or safely care for themselves or maintain their homes. While some seniors, particularly those without family nearby, enjoy the fellowship of a senior neighborhood or assisted living center, most prefer the famil

For every questionable church leader, there are many pastors faithfully serving churches of all sizes, leading them in blessing their communities.