A Thimble Full of Hope: Hope for Today and Eternity

For about twenty years, "The Needle," an anonymous author, wrote a column for the small-town newspaper, The Valley Log. These weekly articles, known as "A Thimble Full," reflected the writer's everyday life and were filled with practical biblical truths. After the author's death in 2001, readers learned who had been writing the folksy pieces: Bob Miller. Fast-forward to 2021. We often feel as if we are wading through quicksand in an effort to survive in our current culture. Ryan Miller, Bob's great nephew, reviewed his uncle's writings and realized the spiritual depth in these pieces. He took the articles and distilled them into a month-long journey of hope and encouragement. You will find relevant Scripture, fresh perspective, and good old-fashioned common sense to ground you. Each one of the thirty-two devotionals brings the reader to the feet of Jesus for a moment of quiet and clarity in this fast-paced world. Robert E. "Bob" Miller, for many years, served as Grounds Superintendent for Maranatha Park, Green Lane, PA. He helped plant a church, Grace Chapel. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and, near the end of his life, served as a mayor while anonymously writing spiritual articles published in a local newspaper. In his early years, he was influenced by Walter Beuttler and could often be found praying late into the night in the chapel at Maranatha Park. His lifestyle was one of following the Lord's leading in witnessing one-on-one to those God brought across his path. He won many souls to the Lord, including a Canadian football Hall of Famer.Ryan M. Miller is the great-nephew of Bob Miller. Bob imparted spiritual truths as they spent time together. It was through Bob that Ryan developed a passion for writing and learned the value of prayer. Ryan now lives in the mountains of western MD, working for a nonprofit. He is also the pastor of a local church in rural West Virginia. Ryan is married to Christy, and has two sons, Ryan and Jared. He previously published Stepping Stones: A Pathway into His Presence.