Religion kept me in line and out of trouble but kept me far from ever knowing His father’s heart for me. — Joanna Gaines The above quote welcomed me in this morning’s early hours, a reminder of a “memory” from my Facebook feed seven years ago. When I saw today’s Five Minute Friday word prompt … [Read more…]
It’s hard to stay holy while we wait. It’s easier to be disappointed or embarrassed by our unanswered prayers. Sometimes, we are even prone to jealousy when we see others who have that for which we so desperately long. And the longer our longing goes unfulfilled, the more sparse hope becomes. It seems more natural … [Read more…]
I was recently asked the question: “How do you want to finish this year?” Two words immediately came to mind: Peaceful and Expectant. I want to come to grips with who I was in 2021, both my highlights and my less-than-stellar moments. Some things I mastered with finesse; others I barely mustered through.Too often, I … [Read more…]
The Bible is filled with miracles. Stories of lives turned by truth unfolding in human hearts as steadily as its pages are unfurled. But it is also a work of mystery. A place where the nonsensical becomes the most rational. Where the extraordinary becomes obvious and expected. Where the simplest of ways births the most extravagant of wonders. … [Read more…]
To live with expectation is to live in a celebration of hope. And when it is grounded in the depths of Father’s love, we are assured we will not be disappointed. Advent is the perfect time to perfect our expectations by turning our hearts toward Bethlehem. A place known for its smallness filled with the … [Read more…]
As we approach the Christmas season, it’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of it all. There’s baking to be completed, cleaning to be done, gifts to purchase, parties to attend . . . or maybe there isn’t. Instead of rushing about to plan and celebrate, you may be experiencing the crushing loneliness … [Read more…]