Besides the family always gathering at our house, there is one thing I remember specifically about Christmas Eve when I was a small child. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins came to our house while we waited for Santa. We did have a convenient chimney for him to come down (grown-ups assured us the fire wouldn’t…
“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.” (Ps. 90:17 NIV) There are seasons when we feel like we’re soaring gracefully through our days. We’re able to accomplish everything that’s needed. We have strong connections with family and…
What if he never has a meaningful friendship? The question rolled my heart thin as the reality of my son’s disability took root. To me, the mark of a good life was one full of rich, deep, meaningful relationships. My heart ached for what might never be for my red-headed, curly-topped son. It’s not just…
The changing seasons are one of the most tangible ways we regularly witness God’s design. Each year begins with the dark, cold months of winter, wherein nothing seems to be happening. Thankfully, those months eventually give way to spring, filled with bright green shoots of life and budding trees. The following warmth of summer feels…
“Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” These are the words said as ashes are either sprinkled on your head or smeared on your forehead in the shape of a cross. The ritual is strange. It’s uncomfortable. It’s blunt. And it’s supposed to be all these things. Ash Wednesday is the first…
In the northern latitudes, winter is dark. It is also cold and windy, but it is the long, persistent darkness that can overwhelm me. With sixteen hours of darkness each day, I cling to light in every form. Candles, lamps, and wood fires can all draw me close and soothe my soul. It’s not just…