It starts with a sale on crayons in aisle five- and suddenly, we’re spiraling. Lunchboxes, carpool calendars, school forms, snack sign-ups, and the dreaded “parent portal login.” Back-to-school season: that magical time when excitement collides with exhaustion… usually by mid-August.
Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or just someone trying to dodge the glue-stick display at Target, this season can stir up a storm of stress. And if we’re honest, most of us try to handle it all in our own strength- armed with color-coded planners and a prayer whispered between drop-offs. But here’s the truth: God never asked us to carry the full weight of this season alone. He offers something better. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, NLT).
Rest? During back-to-school chaos? Is that even allowed? Yes. Yes, it is. But it may require releasing the pressure we put on ourselves. That Pinterest-perfect lunch? Your kid is trading it for someone’s fruit snacks anyway. The first-day photo with matching outfits? Wonderful- if it happens. But it’s not the benchmark for Godly parenting. The flawless classroom? Bonus points, not a Biblical mandate. God’s not grading your performance this semester… He’s offering peace in the midst of the mess. The same God who guided Moses through the wilderness can help you navigate supply lists, sleep schedules, and school-year stress.
So, what if this year, instead of striving for control, we practiced surrender? What if we paused long enough to pray before we planned? What if we let grace cover the gaps our energy can’t? And if the pressure is heavier than a few deep breaths and a verse can lift- let’s talk about it. Anxiety, burnout, mental overload- it’s okay to need support. God never called us to hustle our way to holiness. He calls us to walk with Him- even through the school pickup line.
Feeling the strain as the year ramps up? You’re not alone. Reach out to schedule a counseling session and discover how to move forward with peace, purpose, and maybe even a little laughter.
In the video below, Dr. Jerra Dooley talks about practical steps you can take to walk in peace during the back-to-school season.
Bay’s first few days of school were usually smooth sailing. She marched confidently into kindergarten and even more proudly into first grade, plastic purse slung over her shoulder beside her mismatched backpack. Her smile beamed, and she strutted up the sidewalk like she owned the school. As she marched from the truck toward the school, she’d often collect a group of little girls around her, buzzing like bees around a hive, and they’d all pour through the school doors together.
Walt and Hannah Merrell are seen here with their daughter Bay at her graduation from Ole Miss. Bay will head to Charleston this fall to attend grad school at the College of Charleston.
Each morning, we’d ride 20 minutes to school- just the two of us. It started as a convenience- her school was near my office- but it quickly became sacred. We talked, laughed, sang, and bonded. I played the music of my childhood and beyond from a scratched-up first-generation iPod. She learned every word to “Brown Eyed Girl,” belted out “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” and loved the Crabb Family. But our song- the one that belonged to just us- was Rod Stewart’s “Have I Told You Lately.” I’d sing it to her at night, and in the mornings, we’d hold hands and sing it in the truck, off-key and full-hearted. She knew the words were more than lyrics. They were love.
Then came second grade. Our pediatrician once told us that deep-thinking children come to understand the reality of evil in the world somewhere between second and fourth grade. For Bay, that awakening arrived quietly, then suddenly. One morning on the ride to school, she didn’t seem herself. Her hand squeezed mine a little tighter as we drove toward town. She didn’t sing, not even to the “good songs.” When I asked if she was okay, she said, “I’m fine”- her two-word distress call I now know too well. As we inched forward in the school drop-off line, she grew more anxious. When we reached the front, she whispered, “Daddy, I don’t want to go. Let me come to work with you. Please?” Her hands cupped mine, and her eyes pleaded. I froze. I knew I needed to make her go… for to do otherwise would promote anxiety for the morrow. But as her ‘deddy,’ I wanted to fix whatever hurt she had and avoid more of the same. Seeing my conflict, a kind teacher gently coaxed her out, saying, “It’s okay, Dad. I’ve got her.” But I’ll never forget the way she looked at me as the door shut- eyes locked on mine, hand reaching. She cried all the way to the school doors, her neck craning back to watch me drive off. I cried all the way to work.
Walt and Hannah traveled to Ole Miss for game day fun with Bay.
That scenario played out for weeks. Her pleas turned sharper. “Why won’t you let me stay with you?” “Why are you leaving me?” Her tears tore me up. And every time I had to drive away, I did so with a heavy heart, praying I hadn’t failed her. I told my wife, Hannah, I didn’t know how much longer I could take it. She reassured me- ‘You’re doing the right thing’- but it still hurt. And she was right. Thankfully, Bay did work through this bout of separation anxiety. And she grew. In fact, her strength blossomed. And I soon realized the best thing I could do was let her face the hard things of life, while trusting the One who walks beside her. For even in my absence, He is with her.
Now, years later, as I type this, Bay is preparing to leave home again to attend graduate school at the College of Charleston and all I can do is hum Rod Stewart and remember. “Have I told you lately that I love you…” I used to think those tearful school mornings were some of the hardest days I’d ever experienced. I was wrong. Letting her go now- watching her become her own lion, brave and bold- this is harder. But I know she’s ready. I am reminded that He goes with her… and He tells her every day that He loves her. I suppose, in truth, my prayer now is more about me being ready… and I pray that I am. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
-Walt Merrell
A Christian Outdoorsman who writes of his adventures with his family, with the hope that others might be inspired and encouraged to embrace God’s tapestry, otherwise known as the great outdoors, as a means of finding Common Ground. You can follow him at Shepherding Outdoors on FB, YT and IG and at shepherdingoutdoors.com. His most recent book is available at shepherdingbook.com. Read his faith story at www.BirminghamChristian.com.
TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses and organizations that advertise with Birmingham Christian Family(BCF) and make spreading Good News possible we have TWO Great Giveaways this month.
#1 A Family Four Packs of tickets to Alabama Adventure Amusement Park & Splash Adventure Water Park
To enter, simply LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Instagram @cfpbirmingham.
Offer ends Tuesday 8/12/25. Winner announced 8/13/25 on Instagram so be sure to FOLLOW our page @cfpbirmingham.
#2 Two Winners! Each receive a $25 Gift Card to Henrietta’s Deli in Trussville- home of Chef John Finney who will be on stage at the Celebrate the Family Expo Saturday September 13, 2025. Click here for more details.
Birmingham Christian Family(BCF) is celebrating the completion of 25 years of spreading Good News in our community- that’s 300 monthly issues of the BCF magazine! We invite you to come and celebrate with us at the 6th Annual Celebrate the Family Expo. The event, packed with free activities for the whole family, is September 13, 2025 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Finley Center, Hoover Met Complex.
Other returning event favorites include the River of Life Kids’ Zone, Birthday Bingo with giveaways about every 15 minutes, free face painting by Painted Personalities, the Chick-fil-A Herd, the Hoover Belles, and live music by Kevin Derryberry. Two by Two Rescue will also be onsite with some fury friends you can adopt.
Check your garage and closet for clothes, small appliances and furniture you can bring to the event to donate to support Vapor Ministries.
Come Hungry! Lil Bougie Foodie and Southern Coffee and Waffles Food Trucks will be on site serving delicious, affordable food.
We will continue to add activities to the celebration so for the most up to date event details visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/Expo2025. If your business or organization has a resource to share with families, consider joining us as an Expo Sponsor, Exhibitor, or Merchandise Vendor, www.BirminghamChristian.com/registration.
Vacation, vacation, vacation. That’s what summer is all about, right? Whether you are spending time with the family at the beach soaking in the strong summer sun, or looking for that next hill to climb to check off your summer bucket list, you need to be prepared with the best-equipped luggage. Summer vacations are rendered useless without the proper luggage at your hip and why not do it in style and with the peace of mind that it will last you for life?
For quality luggage and everything else you need for your next adventure, visit Mark’s Outdoors in Vestavia.
This is where Mark’s Outdoors has you set and ready to go. Stop in and take a look at their amazing selection of Filson Luggage. In business since 1897, Filson has thrived on a reputation of honesty, quality, durability and listening to what their customers want. With a lifetime warranty, these canvas goldmines will give you the style and toughness needed for any type of vacation, business trip, or overnight weekend in the great outdoors.
Mark’s Outdoors selection of Filson pieces include everything from small excursion bags to rolling check-in bags. Depending on the size, pieces range in price from $125 to $500. Filson uses only the best materials obtainable and guarantees it on every piece of merchandise.
Visit Mark’s and set yourself up for the long haul, knowing you are putting trust in over 100 years of experience in the Luggage industry with Filson and the customer care of Mark’s Outdoors.
When it comes to managing your money, there’s more to consider than just the bottom line. For many people, investing isn’t only about building wealth or reaching goals- it’s about making sure their dollars support charitable causes and principles that are in line with their closely held values. Whether your focus is on aligning with your faith or giving back to your community, a financial advisor who understands your values can help you build a portfolio that reflects what matters to you. Here’s how to help find a good fit:
Know What You Stand For. Before you start searching for a financial advisor, take a moment to reflect on your own values. Do you want your investments to avoid companies that conflict with your faith? Is charitable giving a big part of your life and something you want to incorporate into your financial strategy? Make a list of your top priorities. Understanding what drives you can help make it easier to find a financial advisor who shares and respects your vision.
Do Your Homework. Once you’ve clarified your goals, start looking for financial advisors who focus on values-based investing. Terms like “socially responsible investing” (SRI), “faith-based investing,” or “impact investing” are good keywords to use during your search. Browse financial advisor websites and check their credentials. Some may highlight their experience with sustainable funds or philanthropic planning. Look for signs that they’re comfortable helping clients invest with a conscience.
Ask the Right Questions. After narrowing your list, schedule a few introductory discussions, which can be done in person or remotely, depending on your preference. These chats are your chance to learn more about how the financial advisor works and whether they’ll be a good fit. Ask about their investment approach:
Do they offer portfolios with faith-based filters?
Have they worked with clients who have similar values to yours?
How do they assess charitable giving strategies or donor-advised funds?
Listen closely to the questions they ask of you. Are they truly interested in what matters to you? Do they understand your values and priorities? Also, consider their communication style. Will they keep you updated regularly? Are they open to collaboration when you want to adjust your plan?
Trust Your Instincts. Choosing a financial advisor is a personal decision. Beyond their professional qualifications, you want someone who listens well and respects your goals. Don’t hesitate to meet with several financial advisors before making your choice. The right person will make you feel understood and supported, both financially and personally. Ideally, you and your financial advisor will forge a long-term relationship that spans the changes and milestones in your life. As the details of your financial strategy may change, you’ll still want to hold onto your values in your investments.
Investing With Purpose. Whether you’re hoping to stay true to your faith or make the world a better place through giving, you don’t have to choose between your values and your financial future. Many good financial advisors can help you do both. Taking the time to find someone who shares your vision can help you feel confident that your investment strategy can align with your personal beliefs.
Watch the video below to learn more about the importance of finding a financial advisor that shares your values.
“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1 (Parable of the Persistent Widow)
God has given me the blessing of being a part of 301 monthly issues of Good News delivered right here in Central Alabama. He has also allowed that Good News to be distributed in other cities including Nashville, Tenn. for the past 15 years. So, get this- for the past 25 years I have had the privilege of listening to people from all walks of life share how God is at work in their lives and then, share those stories with you. The joy of doing so is really hard to put into words!
During the time frame of those 300 plus issues and 25 years, there were days, even weeks, when I questioned whether I could write and publish another issue. The weight of the world seemed so heavy on my shoulders. But as Jesus shares with us in Luke 18:1, “always pray and never give up.” I spent a lot of time talking to God and listening for His voice.
He finished every issue of the magazine.
Each of us faces challenges in life that lead us to ask God, “why?” and cry out for relief. In those moments, I have often heard God whisper to me through His word, “Wait… wait upon Me.” (Psalm 27:14, Is 40:31)
I encourage you to join me in living life like the persistent widow- always pray and never give up. Pure joy awaits us!
Read more about the history of Birmingham Christian Family magazine here.
Princess Rory’s journey is nothing short of a miracle. As a stray mama with eight tiny puppies, she was compassionately taken in by a man who was homeless himself. Though he had little, he gave all he could. When one of the pups became critically ill, he turned to Two by Two Rescue in faith. We welcomed them with open arms, trusting that God would help us provide.
Princess Rory has impeccable manners, is full of affection and trust, and is simply adorable!
From uncertainty to safety, from hardship to hope, Princess Rory has walked a winding road. Through it all, she has shown an incredibly gentle, kind, and resilient spirit. Now, she is ready for the life she was always meant to have filled with love, comfort, and the joy of family. With her beauty queen smile, impeccable manners, and a heart overflowing with affection and trust, Princess Rory reminds us to cherish life’s everyday blessings. She is simply everything you could want in a best friend and more!
If you’re interested in being Princess Rory’s forever family, click here.
As Christians, we believe in a God of second chances. A God who meets us in our brokenness and restores us with grace. Princess Rory’s story is a beautiful reminder of that truth. Transformation is possible with unfailing love. She’s found her second chance with Two by Two Rescue. Now, she’s waiting for someone to give her a forever home. A place where her life can continue to shine as a testament to what compassion, grace, and love can do. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 Two by Two is a faith based, no kill rescue whose mission is to give life to abandoned, abused, stray, and distressed animals. Saving animal lives for more than 20 years, Two by Two is a foster home centered 501 (c)(3). Operating out of the greater Birmingham, Ala. area they have coordinated the rescue and adoption of cats, dogs, horses, and even a few pot-bellied pigs. Two by Two has placed dogs in at least forty states and even a few abroad! To learn more about Two by Two visit twobytworescue.com. †
Hannah and I were married at The Cottle House in Andalusia, Ala. in 1998, the first “event” ever held at the now well-loved venue. The old house, restored by her parents, George and Brenda Gantt, stood proud on Gantt land, full of vintage charm and Southern grit. George had poured himself into that house- overhauling it, renovating it, shaping it into something beautiful again. A handmade wooden cross he crafted from old fence posts hung above the front porch, marking the very place where Hannah and I would exchange vows. It hangs now on our porch at the lake house- a weathered testament to love, hard work, and sacred promises.
Walt and Hannah Merrell were married at The Cottle House in 1998.
On that hot and muggy day, South Alabama’s weather was living up to its unpredictable reputation. Damp heat clung to the air like a wet sauna towel. I sweat through my shirt before lunchtime. My nerves didn’t help matters, and neither did George. He was a towering figure, physically and otherwise. Dressed in a vintage tuxedo and top hat, he looked like a barrel-chested Doc Holliday who stepped off the set of a Western. When I walked into the hall, there he stood. His hand resting on the grip of a vintage Colt .45 revolver tucked in his waistband. “You ain’t thinking about running, are you boy?” he asked, deadpan. I choked out a laugh, hoping he was kidding. I wasn’t sure. He tapped the revolver, raised an eyebrow, then let his coat fall back into place. “That’s good,” he said and walked away. That pretty much set the tone for the rest of the afternoon.
Moments later, I tried to sip water without drenching myself. In doing so, I accidentally knocked the glass over, and in slow motion, it tumbled down the drawers of Brenda’s antique dresser. With each bounce, water spilled into priceless collections of artwork, postcards, handkerchiefs… irreplaceable Americana, ruined. The glass finally hit the floor and exploded. I panicked. I knew I’d made a mess not just physically, but emotionally- especially if George found out. I called for help, handed out orders, tried to patch things up, and grabbed a couple of dry handkerchiefs from the drawer’s edge. Then I stepped outside, nerves frayed, heart racing. Rick, my college buddy and the minister officiating, followed me out. “You nervous?” he asked with a grin. I nodded. “Me too,” he said, chuckling. “Knock-knock.” Only Rick could tell a joke at a time like that. I laughed, tension broken for a breath or two. Just then, George walked out the back door, flanked by a few men who looked like they’d seen a few bar fights. I braced myself. He looked me over from my sweat-soaked shirt to my panicked eyes. “You nervous, son?” he asked. “No sir,” I croaked. He put a big hand on my shoulder and pulled me close. I could see the steel in his eyes again. I was ready for the lecture- or worse, for him to learn about the waterlogged dresser. Instead, George looked over his glasses, and in a low, steady voice said, “It’s going to be just fine, son. Just relax.” Then he hugged me and added, “I love you, boy.” And just like that, the hurricane inside me stilled.
heir wedding was the first official event at this loved venue in South Alabama.
It wasn’t the heat or the glass or the crowd or the nerves that nearly undid me. It was the weight of expectation, the pressure to be perfect for the woman I loved, and the fear of not being enough. But in George’s embrace- in that moment of grace- I realized something deeply spiritual: I wasn’t doing any of this alone. I never had been. I often think of Jesus’ baptism, when God spoke from heaven: “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Long before Jesus preached a sermon or performed a miracle, the Father assured Him of His love. Not because of what He had done- but because of who He was. That’s the message George gave me that day. Not “earn it.” Not “prove yourself.” Just “I love you, son.” And it’s the same message God whispers to us every time we feel overwhelmed, unworthy, or unsure: “It’s going to be just fine, child. I love you.” So no, I didn’t run. I married the love of my life under a wooden cross, on a porch full of cotton, surrounded by antique postcards and the sweet scent of gardenias. And I learned that sometimes, the most powerful sermons aren’t preached. They’re lived out in hugs, in grace, in the stillness after the storm. And yes… the very powerful Hurricane George made landfall on the Florida panhandle and swept through our wedding reception like a stampede of wild ponies. Winds rattled tents and dances were cut short. Roads flooded and traffic was chaos… but God does things in His timing. And we had just enough time to say, “I do.” You do too. To Him that is. He loves you and wants to know if you love Him too.
-Walt Merrell
A Christian Outdoorsman who writes of his adventures with his family, with the hope that others might be inspired and encouraged to embrace God’s tapestry, otherwise known as the great outdoors, as a means of finding Common Ground. You can follow him at Shepherding Outdoors on FB, YT and IG and at shepherdingoutdoors.com. His most recent book is available at shepherdingbook.com. Read his faith story at www.BirminghamChristian.com.
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Watch the video below to learn more about what sets Guardian Fence Solutions apart and more.
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