Ken Martin

Getting Down To Earth

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I would like to think I’m a ‘down to earth’ guy. Being raised on a farm – touching dirt and livestock, cutting fire wood, and sweating in hay fields has shaped me. Each of us has our story. Early experiences helped shape our expectations of ourselves. Over time, we grew as we sorted out whether … Read more

All You Need to Do Is Ask

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Do you ever wonder what you missed out on in life because you were afraid to ask? A promotion at work? A better price on something you bought? Help with a major task? Some people are missing out on a life with Jesus because they are afraid to ask. They assume that their past has … Read more

“REMEMBER”

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We are days from the annual commemoration on “the 11th Hour, of the 11th Day, of the 11th Month”. ‘Armistice Day’ or ‘Remembrance Day’ serves one purpose – to remind us, “Lest We Forget”. Armistice Day marked the end of World War I in 1918. In observing Remembrance Day, we remember and honour all who … Read more

True Teamwork

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Are you enjoying October baseball? As I write this, my Toronto Blue Jays are playing in the American League Championship Series for the first time in nearly a decade. Back in April I would not have predicted this, but what a fun and surprising season it has turned out to be! What has led to … Read more

“Unfamiliar Territory”

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We all have our ‘comfort zones’. Venturing beyond them is easier for some than others. Growth, however, is all about entering unfamiliar territory; there we develop. Unfamiliar territory is a fact of life: A friend told me, “The key to success is knowing yourself.” I agree, but it has taken time to know myself – … Read more

What Are You Storing?

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On a recent vacation, my wife and I spent some time cleaning the garage. Even though others were not there to see it, I was embarrassed by the things I have been storing. Some items have been sitting in boxes since we moved to our home 11 years ago. It was good to finally see … Read more

“Are You With Me?”

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When asked this question, we get it. It indicates a quest to be understood, and our need for agreement. We search for “common ground.” God created us to value togetherness – being on “the same page.” Mutual values, goals, and practices make for better progress as a team. This is indispensable in fostering good family, … Read more

Stronger Than the Storm

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One evening, after a long day of teaching, Jesus was resting in His disciples’ boat while they were sailing on the lake. Suddenly, a great windstorm arose, and the waves were crashing into the boat. Where was Jesus while this was happening? In the stern of the boat, fast asleep. His frantic disciples woke Him … Read more

“Who Do You Think You Are!?”

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I recall a time or three when I thought I was bigger than I was. Though a decent kid, trying to be ‘smart’, get attention, or prove I was one of the ‘gang’ did not go well for me. I discovered consequences at home or at school for inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour. “Funny thing – … Read more

“The Pope”

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This past Easter Monday the Catholic Church worldwide grieved the death of Pope Francis. Thereafter, 133 cardinal electors from six continents made their way to the Vatican. Grieving gave way to anticipation as the conclave gathered. On Thursday, May 8th, white smoke emerged from the chimney of Sistine Chapel indicating that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost … Read more