Flipping through the pages of my journal, I search for the one blank page that will house today’s thoughts and, hopefully, my new name. Pen in hand, I stare at it for a moment and then scribble one word in black ink. Brave. You’ve been calling me brave for a long time, haven’t You, God? […]
When Abundant Life is Found in the Middle of the Lake
There’s something about seeing your child in the middle of the lake all by himself that’s unnerving. Even when you’ve done all you can to prepare him. He’s wearing his life jacket. It’s the correct size. It’s zipped and tightly clasped. It’s being used for its intended purpose. And the boat you’re riding in is […]
Coming to Understand the Always and Never Nature of God
Always and Never. Two words spoken with regularity in many of our everyday conversations. More often than not, these words are used to convey an exaggeration of sorts. But there is no exaggeration when it’s Jesus speaking. None at all. If He says He will be with us always, He will. If He says He […]
Remembering the Gift of Love Through the Pain of Goodbye
My husband called. The news was not good. Ready or not, today would be the day we’d say goodbye to a much loved family member – our 15 year old Jack Russell terrier. Spot had joined our family as a 6-week old pup; a birthday gift for our then five year old son. None of […]
Better Together: Helping Friends Down the Path of Pain
Have you heard anything? It’s a question I’ve been asking a lot lately. It’s also a question that’s been asked of me many times the past few months. I like to think of it as a we’re-better-together kind of question. One of those checking-in-with-you, praying-for-good-news, waiting-alongside-you kind of questions. The type of question friends and […]
3 Helpful Points to Consider When Reflecting on God’s Beautiful Grace
I recently stood at a cash register, facing an unhappy cashier. Her words, inconsiderate and harsh. My gut reaction, “Defend yourself! Put her in her place!” Instead I paused, sensing a gentle nudge… extend grace to this broken woman. And then I remembered: I didn’t deserve God’s grace any more than this woman deserved mine. […]
When Righteous Anger Gives Way to Hidden Resentment
“When I observe your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is a human being that you remember him, a son of man that you look after him?” Psalm 8:3-4 (CSB) A dear friend called me with concern in her voice and hope […]
Grace: It’s What Makes Us His
“Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.” Hebrews 7:25 (NLT) I am so guilty of equating going to church and appearing church-like with being a Christian and appearing Christ-like. Yes, the church – God’s people – […]
Grateful for the Invite
I slipped my feet into one of my husband’s full-body camo suits, pulled it up over my shoulders and zipped it. Two pairs of socks and gloves later, I headed out the door for a walk in the snow. This was not typical behavior for me. My idea of enjoying winter weather involves sitting in […]