Linda (Visscher) Roorda and husband, Edward, live in Spencer, NY, both former members of the Christian Reformed Church. She is a mother and grandmother, a medical/radiology transcriptionist, an empty-nest author, and past speaker at a multi-faith women’s retreat. She published some of her ancestral genealogy research in the “New York Genealogical and Biographical Record” in 2004, 2005 and 2008, writing personal-interest interview articles and a genealogy column in a local newspaper. An online blogger for several years, Linda enjoys sharing her faith in poetry and reflections at her new blog, “Poetic Devotions by Linda,” and genealogy research tutorials at “Homespun Ancestors.” She also wrote several articles for both the CRC/RCA Disability Concerns newsletter and The Network. Her hobbies include gardening, sewing/quilting, cake decorating, silk floral arrangements for church, and singing in the praise team at North Spencer Baptist Church.
A thankful heart is at the root of the joy and happiness we often search for. For with a thankful heart, we will readily say, “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His love endures forever…”
True love is about teamwork that strengthens bonds. It’s a choice to remain committed to vows made before God on a joyous wedding day because the tough times will come.
The following questions were asked by youth in our church several years ago. My husband's answers helped them understand what it’s like to be blind, and how they might help others with visual loss.
I may not want to face future trials, but looking back, I know they have refined me and shaped me for the better. . . just like the seam ripper's cutting edge.
As we search for God and focus on Him and His love for us, we find that the Apostle Paul’s words “…I no longer live, but Christ lives in me,” say it all.
The lasting effects of any bullying are truly devastating. Yet, because of what I’ve been through, I’ve also learned God uses even the traumas of life for a higher purpose.
Most of my life I’ve been embarrassed and ashamed to admit I have Tourette’s. Initially mocked by peers, I quickly learned to hide or camouflage the tics with movements that wouldn’t be recognized as readily.
Under stress, caregivers often let their needs slide. At times I feel overwhelmed and resentful, utterly exhausted physically and emotionally. The good news is that our love not only survived but grew deeper.
As I prepare myself spiritually this Lenten season to focus more intently on Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, Carolyn’s words echo the thoughts of my heart.
I remember many years ago leaders in church saying that if anyone was discouraged or depressed, they must not be a true believer in God. How wrong and presumptuous to think that the difficulties of life can’t and won’t weary anyone, including a hearty saint!
Our church is without a pianist, so I chose contemporary praise song videos or acapela hymns for worship music. There are so many great praise songs it's hard to chose, but a few favorites include...
I'm a music worship leader in a small rural church. With pianist and co-leader/guitarist no longer able to participate, I select lyric videos of contemporary praise and traditional hymns which fit...
Staci, Ed says "Thank you very much, and may this bless someone else going through vision loss."
Thank you, Michele. Unfortunately, I don't have time to get back into painting currently; but someday when I can retire, I just may give painting with acrylics a try. Thank you so much for your...
Thanks for sharing your perspective with painting! I would love to see some of your paintings and enjoyed seeing some on your page - very nice Michele! I used to paint landscapes with oils years...
Praising God with you for your mother-in-law's new heart! What a wonderful blessing! You say it so well, Staci - we pray so long for answers and healing, and I, too, taper off the prayers of...
Thank you for mentioning that, Michele. That is an excellent option for some! A while back I had read about a military veteran with PTSD who also had a specially trained dog to assist him. I'm so...
I'm sorry to read about your struggles with stuttering, and thank you for sharing that, William. Yes, we all find ways to handle the difficulties or stressors that come into our lives. God bless...
I'm so sorry about your own struggles too, Michele. Yes, we all find our way despite our individual challenging issues. God bless you! I always enjoy reading your informative posts!
Thank you so much, Angela.