In multiple places of scripture, we find the directive, “Be Still.” Entire sermons can be written about what that means, but each of us needs to determine our own response. How can we personally ‘be still?’ First, consider the opposite. What does it mean to not be still? When we worry about a situation we […]
Finding God’s will for our lives. Doing what God wants us to do. Being all God created us to be. These phrases are often buzz words for sermons, Bible studies, or podcasts. They represent thoughts we pray for, seek to attain as true Jesus-followers. Often with the hope of pleasing God. We focus on purpose
Pundits in the news media these days are writing and speaking about revenge. Enacting punishment on certain political opponents. Multiple lawsuits. And expressing the viciousness contained in social media posts. Yet for people who call themselves Jesus-followers, revenge should never be one of our labels. Instead, we are called to forgive. To step through the
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Perhaps this has happened to you. Plans are solid for an upcoming event. People invited. Groceries bought. Supplies carefully packed in the car. The space rented. Clothing chosen. You’re in charge and excited about the weekend. Then you wake up with a mysterious illness. Sore throat. Slight fever. COVID-negative but feeling lousy-positive. Can you push
As I checked another day off my planner, I knew an escape from my office was absolutely necessary. Something to refresh my spirit. One of those ‘Artist Dates’ that Julia Cameron writes about. Ice cream? Nah — not really hungry for it and not healthy anyway. Chai tea? Nope — too late in the day
It lay on my driveway. A tiny bundle of brown feathers. Still. So still as I approached. A sparrow. Not a baby that might have fallen from the nest. This was an adult. Did she fly into my window and break her neck? None of the feral cats seemed to care. Their bellies already filled
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The cast iron pot represents one of the most poignant memories of my childhood. Every Sunday, it was prepped for our after-church dinner: pot roast (our own beef — free from any hormones or preservatives), carrots and potatoes from our garden, a Jell-o salad with fruit cocktail, Zwieback (the Mennonite bread — a double decker
Recently, a friend stepped into eternity. At his memorial service, the eulogy ended with, “Well done. Good and faithful servant.” Although I agreed with that sentiment — I struggle with the root of what that subject really means. Life and Bible study have taught me how legalism can rear its ugly head, even at a
In those foggy moments before the alarm rings and consciousness reminds me of the day ahead, I listen hard for soul whispers. It is often in the early morning when the meditations of my heart remind me I am not alone. The treasure of Psalm 127:2 becomes reality, “God gives to his beloved even in
Many years ago, I had the privilege of singing this duet with Jacque Ramirez at First Baptist Church in Arkansas City, KS. It remains one of my favorites for this season. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXa_sS02Swg&list=RDuXa_sS02Swg&start_radio=1
Easter Celebration Read More »