The wounds cut deep; both physically and figuratively. Several Decembers ago, I fell down the stairs. People sometimes talk about traumatic events as experienced through a surreal slow motion reality at the time. That would perfectly describe how it played out for me. Returning from a late church meeting, I longed for rest. While snuggling […]
Advent/Christmas
Why Eating Meatloaf Reminded Us How to Love Others
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This picture speaks at least that many.You see, there is much more going on here than meatloaf in a pan. As I ponder on what to make for dinner, ideas rotate through my mind. And then….meatloaf presents itself. It’s not particularly recognized as anything fancy. Actually, […]
Do You Believe Jesus is Enough to Meet Your Hopes and Fears?
The angels’ proclamation to the shepherds packs a powerful punch. “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10 Their good news communicated the fulfillment of a long anticipated promise. But. somewhere in the midst of hope lies fear. What if that which we […]
What the Shepherds Teach Us About Responding When God Speaks Into Our Lives
I resonate with the shepherds. God’s manifestation in our lives can be terrifying at times. Oh, they would have been familiar with the various ways God’s presence is revealed: God spoke in a whisper to Elijah, appeared as a cloud to lead the Israelites, and spoke through a burning bush. God’s use of special effects […]
Overcoming Restlessness on Those Long Detours: Learning From Mary
Several years ago, my preschool son drew a picture of Mary and Joseph. Not just any picture, mind you. Usually, the manger scene as represented through the eyes of a child wielding a crayon finds its place on a paper canvas. But Eli’s mind captured a different scene in the narrative. He captured what he believed to be […]
When Working at Target Became My Calling
The ways that God speaks into our lives constantly amaze me. Sometimes it’s loud and blatant . Other times, the voice comes as a whisper or a gentle nudging. And often, it comes in the midst of an ordinary moment. Unexpected. Like a burning bush appearing among the familiar landscape. One day, as I waited […]
