Teachable Moments in the Lenten Season
The season of Lent has already begun. If you and your family are getting a late start on this observance, or if you’ve never actually observed Lent before, it’s not too late to start. For families who profess faith in…
The Vault
“I have this thing I call ‘the vault,'” the pastor said as an introduction to the personal story he was about to share. I’m not sure why, but I immediately pictured the kind of vault that is a gymnastics apparatus.…
We Need Community
We were a couple of months overdue for our daughterโs one-year โwell-babyโ checkup with the doctor. We had recently moved to a new state and had not yet met with a pediatrician. โItโs not a big deal,โ I thought. When…
The Compassion Experience
Back before social distancing started, my family and I participated in an event to help us get as close to someone in another part of the world as we could. We participated in The Compassion Experience. This immersive exhibit allows…
Battle
There are some nights when I collapse into my bed in complete weariness. Most nights I am ready for sleep, tired from all the running around and dishes and laundry and logistics and cleaning up, etc., etc. But Iโm talking…
The Problem with 4
When I see a problem, I have a tendency to get tunnel vision. It feels like it’s my responsibility to solve or fix the problem, if it’s within my ability to do so. But it can consume me. My brain,…
God and Sinners Reconciled
“Sin has broken the most important relationship in all of life, the relationship between people and their Creator. This separation alters everything in each of our lives…The bond between God and mankind has been broken. Fear has replaced love. Hiding…
Thoughts During Advent: Labor of Love
Several years ago, my husband and I were invited to perform a song as part of a church’s Christmas worship service. As we were waiting our turn, we sang along with the congregation in various Christmas anthems. The last one…
Thoughts During Advent: What to Expect When You’re [Mary] Expecting
Nine months. For some women, the time during pregnancy flies. I wonder how the time felt to Mary. As soon as I found out that I was pregnant, I immediately wanted to tell everyone! I wonder how long Mary waited…
Thoughts During Advent: Do Not Be Afraid
Can you imagine it? You’re going about your day, and an angel appears and starts speaking to you! “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you,” he announces. The Bible says that Mary was “greatly troubled at this statement and…