Sharing Messages of Hope During the Holiday Season
As a pastor, I often greet parishioners at the church door. I want to share meaningful words of assurance, but…
Articles by Joe MacDonald
What Pain Means to Me as a Caregiver
“Pain” is a short, four-letter word, but its meaning is complex for those affected by chronic illness. For example, my…
That Time Hemophilia Came for Thanksgiving
Some years ago, when my youngest son, “MacDonald the Younger,” was about 7, he had an internal bleed into…
Those Times When I Need to ‘Choose Something Like a Star’
We live in a world that is loud and overwhelms us at every turn. The noise can drown out our…
Setting Boundaries Is Important During Long Hospitalizations
Many years ago, when my youngest son was 11 months old, he was hospitalized during the Christmas season due…
How I Define Advocacy as the Father of Sons With Hemophilia
Last Sunday, I preached about a blind man named Bartimaeus. The people told the blind beggar to arise and…
An Old Injury, a New Pain
I sit waiting for my youngest son to complete an MRI of his right ankle. He has been overwhelmed with…
My Son Must Consider Health Issues When Planning for the Future
In June, my firstborn son, affectionally nicknamed MacDonald the Older, will turn 26 years old. Conversations include career plans…
Remembering Special Events That Brought Us Joy
This week, we celebrate Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Nearly 600 hot air balloons fly overhead while we…
Finding Hope in the Worst of Circumstances
No one likes to feel out of control of their body, but those of us affected by chronic illness know…