Author Archives: Don Follis

During the Vietnam War the U.S. averaged 150 dead a week for seven years.  In World War II, we lost about 300 men every day for four years.  In the Civil War, 400 Americans a day, Union and Confederate, died from the battle of Ft. Sumter (April 1861) to Appomattox (April 1865 when the SouthContinueContinue reading “Easter is coming … Christ is coming … Hold on! Hold on! Hold on!”

This is one of the great passages to read and ponder during Lent…Hebrews 2:14-18New International Version (NIV)14 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—15 and free those who all theirContinueContinue reading “100 % God; 100% Human… Our Lord and Savior”

Early this morning I read the 3 passages below through twice very slowly, trying to notice every word, every emotion. I tried to imagine the look on the face of Jesus and the look on the face of Judas. Then I sat for several minutes and looked at the texts, pondering the deep mystery of God’sContinueContinue reading “Sitting quietly to reflect on one of the great and profound mysteries”

I am fascinated by how God speaks to his creatures.  He is the potter, after all.  Each of us came from the dust of the earth.  That makes us, well, mud.  Okay, clay, if that makes you feel better. “Good morning, Mr. Play-Doh.”And yet, God breathes life into each of us.  God then fills usContinueContinue reading “God is speaking to you — right now, this very second!”

[This religion column appeared in section B-3 of the Sunday Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette (3/04/2013).  Currently, the paper does not include the columns of their local columnists on their website.  With their permission, here it is.]Don Follis column; March 3, 2013: “Enjoy the day full of lots of first chances”  When my daughter was a student atContinueContinue reading “Lots of new chances … Starting today!”

A another mass funeral in Syria.  This one (Feb. 26, 2013) in Homs.Which do you think is better… * To choose to attend a funeral?* Or to choose to go to a party?(Yes, I am setting you up!)Well, here’s your answer from one of my favorite Bible books:Ecclesiastes 7:2New International Version (NIV)2 It is better toContinueContinue reading “Choices … attend a funeral or a wedding?”