Motherhood and Time
Time is not kind to anyone but sometimes it is really harsh on those in the most important and toughest job in the world! Time is a thief. It takes, but before it does it gives abundantly. I loved (almost) every stage of parenting and even though I loved those times I wouldn’t even begin…
My definition of joy
My sister-in-love went to a conference on joy at her church recently. When she came home, as we were reflecting on her time, she asked me what my definition of joy is. Wow! It is like saying define the universe and give an example! There is no way to give a thin answer to such…
Wait and hope
I recently watched another version of The Count of Monte Cristo on PBS Masterpiece. It was well done and worth a watch, but some of the changes made to the original story diminish the core message, which is that human wisdom is limited, that vengeance, while tempting, is destructive, and that true redemption comes through…
The joy set before Him
Last Sunday, E.G.,the pastor at Mariners Church, brought up a beautiful reminder that Christ willingly took the cup of God’s wrath so that we would only know the cup of his blessing. Hebrews 12:2 says, “….For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand…
What does it really Matter?
It is the beginning of a new year and many people turn their wishes into resolutions, adding feet to their goals. At the very least there seems to be a willingness to try again. To be better or to become something more. I too have goals and aspirations, although nothing like I planned when I…
Letter to the 8th “Church”
Challenged by Mike following the sermon series on Revelation 2 & 3 to write a letter to myself from Jesus, I will make a feeble attempt. The 7 letters to the churches included some form of acknowledgement or praise for what they were getting right, followed by correction and a call to action. I am…
The Empty Seat
Today I was startled by another person who has gone ahead to heaven; that is number 6 in as many days. Why does it feel like more people die at the holidays?! I know that it probably not true, but perhaps it just feels even more difficult because of the season. For many, me included,…
Count it all Joy
Counting it all joy comes from James 1: 2, which says, ” Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” It is so…
Contagious!
Some things are not contagious even if they are hereditary. Just because certain cancers, diseases, or mental health disorders run in a family, there is no guarantee that someone will get it just because they are related. While the probability is higher, it may or may not happen. And on the flip side, someone may…
Heart Language
Recently I went to a men’s ministry breakfast that was honoring a friend who was “retiring” from ministry. Like other faithful servants who have a call to full-time ministry, he is not really retiring. Instead, he is just letting go of full-time employment. The people I most admire don’t really retire; they walk faithfully and…