Community · Faith · Hope · Love

Between the Dashes

Not long ago, while riding in the car with my husband, my youngest son posed a curious question.  He asked, “What is an angel-omie?”  My husband contemplated his question and grappled with the origin of the inquiry.  My son directed his father back to the song playing on the radio and then he understood.  Chris Tomlin…… Continue reading Between the Dashes

Faith · Hope · Love · Uncategorized

A Beautiful Distraction

Ordinarily–I try to sit close to the front to optimize my attention and minimize my distraction. On occasion-due to tardiness, or a full house-I don’t have the benefit of sitting close. This past weekend, as I climbed the steps of the bleachers, I just knew I would miss the message because I’d be “busy” watching pedestrians en route to the bathroom…or…… Continue reading A Beautiful Distraction

Grace · Hope · Love

Even Though

Even though…it’s my new favorite phrase.  When used as a conjunction, it strongly emphasizes the contrast between the two connecting phrases. My study last week revolved around the life, calling and promise of Abraham. He was called to go to a new land and then given the blessing of being the conduit of God’s blessing to all the people…… Continue reading Even Though

Hope · Love · Uncategorized

Debt Forgiveness

Fine. {noun} 1. a sum of money imposed as a penalty for an offense or dereliction: a parking fine. My account at our local library was frozen due to overdue fines. The total was hefty and I was embarrassed. Often, I would log on and review my account and each time I would {sigh} and…… Continue reading Debt Forgiveness

Community · Grace · Hope · Love

Tiptoeing Toward Vulnerability

Intimacy frightens me. Being brave–being vulnerable–sharing weakness—no.way.  Exposure is scary. Trust is required and I have not been super adept in that department. Beth Moore, in her study Living Free, refers to the “be strong, be independent” philosophy that was authored by satan. The one that sounds like, “no, I’m fine…I can manage this on my own.” Self…… Continue reading Tiptoeing Toward Vulnerability

Grace · Hope · Love · Uncategorized

Five Minute Friday::Nothing

In the quiet place I recognize my empty hands…my weary heart…my dried up spirit. On my own, separate from the Lord, I have nothing. He substantiates me, redeems me, fills me, graces me and wildly loves me. My independent, stubborn heart likes to believe I have all I need–moreover, that I am all I need.…… Continue reading Five Minute Friday::Nothing

Grace · Hope · Love · Uncategorized

Not Your True Enemy

Her barking is not uncommon, in fact, it’s her initial instinct in every situation. This morning wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. I sat at the table enjoying my tea and reading…and she went outside and began barking. Something told me this wasn’t her ordinary exchange with the pesky squirrels, or random cat in our…… Continue reading Not Your True Enemy

Community · Grace · Hope · Love

A Flooring Confession

Don’t ask my friends, they will exaggerate.  They will tell you it’s 2-3 times per day, but they are wrong! I confess–I do obsess about my floors, and in turn sweep them often.  In my defense, dark hardwood floors show EVERYTHING! A few times a week I cave in and clean them. I do. No…… Continue reading A Flooring Confession

Love

A Lesson From Loss

Her name was “Pistol”, and it was fitting. She lived on a farm with acres to explore, and countless animals to annoy-she earned her name. We fell in love at first sight and she became ours! Riding home, we all threw out names we thought might fit. Because she was an older do, we knew she needed a…… Continue reading A Lesson From Loss

Grace · Hope · Love

Moving Beyond Martyr

When traveling on an airplane with small children, the flight attendant reminds parents to place their own oxygen mask on before helping the children with theirs. They agree, but in reality do they really anticipate a need to follow her instructions? Maybe not. I would listen and agree-when I traveled with my children—but I never…… Continue reading Moving Beyond Martyr