The people of Okinawa, Japan, have a fascinating word they live by on a daily basis: ikigai—pronounced “icky guy.” It roughly translates to “the reason you get out of bed in the morning.” In other words, it’s the thing that drives you the most in life.Phrases that are associated with ikigai are: what you love; what brings you satisfaction; what you are good at; what the world needs; what motivates you; what brings joy. What is your ikigai?

Walk along the main street in Swift Current, Sask., and you’ll be greeted by sparkling and enticing window displays—courtesy of the Salvation Army thrift store.One week, NHL hockey jerseys in pristine condition take centre stage. Another week, sumptuous grad gowns adorn the front windows. A Salvation Army exhibit spotlights the living history of the church. And still other times feature the Beatles or Star Wars.

Jewish priest Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, had prayed for a child throughout their lengthy marriage until they’d lost hope. By now they were old. Too old, by human standards, to have children. But God delights in turning human ways upside down. He loves to do things His way, often surprising us. And what hHe did left the priest, literally, speechless.