Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.—James 1:12 When I think of a crown, I think of a beautiful gem-studded head ornament. I do not think of a deadly virus. However, the coronavirus was given its name because…

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”—John 13:35 “See that?” my father gestured toward a tree trunk sharpened like the tip of a pencil, then toward another limb gnawed on both sides. It sure looked like evidence of beaver building to me. Then Dad led the group of us family members to the water’s…

 “Give, and you will receive gifts — the full measure, compacted, shaken together and overflowing, will be put right in your lap. For the measure with which you measure out will be used to measure back to you!”—Luke 6:38 I was a single mom, trying to support three kids on my own. Their father was in prison, and I received no child…