We do not focus a great deal of theology on the humanity of Jesus. Yet we know he lived and died as a human being. The television series, The Chosen, has brought more of the human physical and emotional characteristics of Jesus to the forefront. Maybe this series has become so popular because we needed […]
Hope in the Humanity Read More »
Ash Wednesday this year, 2023, was the first time I wore the ashes cross on my forehead. It was deeply meaningful. I did not grow up in a religious tradition that included the ashes-on-the-forehead practice. In the buckle of the Bible belt, it was considered too ‘Catholic.’ But many of those traditionally legalistic beliefs have
As a writer, observation is one of my tools. Awareness of this tool causes me to listen for dialects as people talk and later incorporate those rhythms into the characters who people my novels. Observation notes interesting quirks such as the depth of a dimple, a spontaneous laugh, or fingers drumming on a barn wood
Hope Conquers the Chaos Read More »
While typing and printing off documents, my printer suddenly decided to morph into la-la land. Electronic devices are wonderful — until they don’t work. Then we’re stuck. Frustrated, I tried several times to print the last document, not realizing what was happening on the other end of electronic cyberspace. After rebooting, unplugging, and still not
A massive earthquake in Turkey. Another black boy murdered. The diagnosis of Stage 4 cancer. Alzheimer’s. Kidnappings. The war in Ukraine. It’s enough to keep us from watching the news. In fact, I am limiting myself to only one short news show per day. Check out the 1440.com for an alternative. Sometimes life unravels a
Searching for Hope Read More »
Since God is timeless, it is always a sweet surprise when I discover him working — right on time. A year ago, I bought a lovely journal to add to my stash. Never enough journals for a writer, you know. This particular journal caught my eye because the cover was a quiet country scene with
Hope in the Silent Timing Read More »
When we wait on God for answers, it often feels like a test of patience. Throughout my journey, experience has taught me to wait on God. When I step forward too soon and try to force something to happen — it ends in lost revenue, additional stress, or a clunky mess. Then I am filled
Hope Nudges Forward Read More »
She was a lovely woman and an expert in her field — the stager who came at the request of the realtor. At the outset, she warned me, “I’m not here to offend you. I’m just doing my job.” I was prepared for her to move things around and give me some decorating ideas. But
Hope and Our Stuff Read More »
One of the joys of my life arrives every morning when I feed the birds. My place has a large deck where I’ve hung three bird feeders. Every morning, I pour out the seed, call to the birds, and watch these amazing creatures float toward me. Flashy cardinals, raucous blue jays with their silver details,
Hope Identifies with the Sparrow Read More »
We rarely think of the Pharisees as the good guys, in spite of the fact that Nicodemus, Joseph of Arimathea, and Gamaliel seemed to believe the message of Jesus. And who knows how many other Pharisees were secret believers. Yet, we can learn from these guys. Take some of their behaviors and flip them into
What Hope Learns from the Pharisees Read More »