Karen Holford

I have paddled my toes in the great sea of burnout—probably even waded in up to my chest. I’m not sure how deep. When life feels completely overwhelming, you can take one small step and suddenly discover that there is no ground under your…

Jesus made it clear that children were very special to Him. He remembered what it felt like to be a child, be vulnerable, be filled with wonder, run freely, and live a simple and uncomplicated life. So He…

It was Friday afternoon in Jerusalem, just before Sabbath. The plaza by the Western Wall was filling with people, laughter, and music. A tune began to emerge, a song of Sabbath celebration. A dozen girls held hands and danced together, circling,…

Three months into our marriage, Bernie and I were having worship together. We were quietly reading the same passage of Scripture, preparing to share our insights and ideas. I immersed myself in the verses, trying to experience what it would…

Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a job that fits around your children's needs, your husband's schedule, and your own talents? A job that helps toward a camping trip, flute lessons, a decent outfit, presents for the family. A job that brings…

The jigsaw puzzle lay half-finished on the dining room table. Piles of pieces surrounded the growing picture. The blue ones were in a pile waiting for someone to undertake the laborious task of constructing the sky.…

Kate and Mark had just been through the incredible experience of the birth of their first child. It had been a long and painful labor. Kate had opted to go without any pain relief, and by the time she delivered she was at the end of her emotional…

Jesus has just entered Jerusalem on a wave of triumph and rejoicing. Little children and their parents run down the roads, carpeting them with olive branches. Praises rend the air! As the procession nears the Temple,…

We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners" (Ps. 20:5).

Banners were used in Bible times as a standard or ensign to declare an army's allegiance. They were symbols…

It is children’s Sabbath in an average church. But it hasn’t been an average kind of service. The children illustrated the words of the scripture reading with sign language. Every child had written praises to God, prayer requests, and Thank-You…

Editor’s note: In the May 2009 issue, Karen Holford addressed involving children in the divine worship service. This month, she expands the discussion to include involving children in other church events.

What would happen…