I have known the Christmas story my whole life. I am familiar with all of the details. I’m well acquainted with Mary, young and innocent as she listens wide-eyed and terrified to the angel Gabriel. He informs her that she will be the mother of the long-awaited Messiah. How can this be? It isn’t even … Read more
As we enter Holy Week, a time of reflecting on the incredible gift that Jesus gave us on the cross, I wanted to share an important lesson I learned a few years ago about the sadness of Easter. I painted the walls in my office bright happy colors. There are no window dressings so that … Read more
What are your quiet times like? The time that you set aside to spend one on one time with God? If you’re like me, some days are better than others. A number of years ago I had a morning visit with God that I still remember clearly to this day. It had been one of … Read more
One of my favorite Bible stories is recorded in Mark 2 and Luke 5. Jesus had begun his earthly ministry and news about him had spread. Not only did he teach with authority about the matters of God, but with a simple word or a gentle touch, he was able to wipe out fevers, cure … Read more
My hatred of the mirror began when I was very young. I detested almost everything about the girl who looked back at me. I had come to believe some things about myself that just were not true. It took years to discover what the truth really was. And it took decades to actually accept that … Read more
I’ve been a Christian for more than 50 years. I know exactly what the Bible teaches about forgiveness. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 I know I’m supposed to forgive. But what if I choose not to? Or what if it is … Read more
One Sunday, I watched David, a young father from my church, walking across the parking lot. In one arm, he held his newborn baby. His toddler, Matthew, was walking beside him, holding his other hand. Matthew had to reach up so far to hold his dad’s hand that his feet barely touched the ground. They … Read more
I painted the walls in my office bright happy colors. There are no window dressings so that every single bit of sunshine can make its cheery way into my happy place. I love this space! It is where my creative juices flow best. I spend hours sitting here writing and creating. But today a chill has settled on the room.
It’s because of Easter.
All I ever wanted was to be a mom. I never had dreams of becoming a teacher or a doctor or world changer. I just wanted to get married and have a family. After Brian and I had been married for three years, we decided it was time to start our family. Finally! I was … Read more
I have spent more than 30 years celebrating Jesus’ birthday with kids, first as the mom of four boys, then as a third-grade teacher, and now as a grandma. Whether snuggled up on the couch with my grandson or sitting on the classroom rug with eight- and nine-year-olds, one of my favorite things to do … Read more