Mike Howard

Turning points often come from one powerful moment of love or acceptance. A father’s affirmation helped a man believe he could overcome addiction—and that God loved him too. In Christ, we are not defined by rejection or past mistakes. Because of the Cross, we live without condemnation and with the assurance that we are deeply valued.

Penguins may look goofy, but their community is remarkable. Hundreds gather, play, and care for one another—rotating in circles to keep each other warm while protecting their eggs in the harsh Antarctic cold. Watching creation like this reminds me that God designed the world with purpose and mystery. Maybe our hearts, like those penguins, carry an inner radar guiding us toward something we truly need.

Even in a world that can feel heavy with struggle and uncertainty, we are reminded that our lives are not without meaning. Each of us is given the opportunity to contribute something good, something hopeful, something lasting. Our purpose is not found in perfection, but in participation — in faithfully serving God and others wherever we are placed.