Lesson Learned Through an Unexpected Teacher
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…” (Matthew 11:28 NIV). Her hair was matted, bits of trash littering the curb upon which she sat. As I approached, I paid particular attention to the crosswalk signal beyond her. Realizing…
Our One Reliable Source of Truth
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6–CSB). –pedia (suffix)–that which is related to learning. Anyone else remember a good ‘ol set of encyclopedias? As a child, our family had two sets, in fact–a black Collier (circa 1972ish) and a newer…
Oh Mr. Lee, You’re the ‘Violin’ the Lord Loves
“But now, this is what the Lord says–He who created you… He who formed you…: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when…
A Meaningful Lesson in a ‘Not-So-Mo’ Moment
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1–NIV)” The other afternoon, I had what I’d call a “Not-So-Mo” moment. There I was, having a really good day, not feeling particularly snarky or irritable, nor easily miffed. It had…
Dwelling Place
“How lovely is your dwelling place… I long and yearn for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh cry out for the living God. Even a sparrow finds a home, and a swallow, a nest for herself where she places her young… How…
Rodeo Dream Realized on a Horse Named Smoky
“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4–NIV). Ever since our daughter Allie was a wee one, when her sudden presence in our home still seemed much like a dream come true, she’s loved horses. Unlike many children…
Rising from Bitter to Behold the Begotten
This is a personal portrayal of Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law. To read the entire biblical account, see Ruth from the Old Testament. ******* How many times has my heart been broken? The ash heap became a familiar place, I promise you. My wailing, too, to those…
God’s Gift of a Good Dog–Part 2
(Part 1 is linked at the end of this post–where I introduce you to my earliest memory, explaining my love for dogs! And don’t forget to comment for an opportunity to offer help for a furry friend.) ******* Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and…
Confessions of a Thief
Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you (I Peter 5:7–NLT). I fear I may be a thief. There. I said it. “How so?” perhaps one wonders. After all, it’s not that I pickpocket, and I don’t shoplift at the local…
Good Friday Hope
Who would have imagined there’d be Good Friday hope found in a Kalanchoe? Winter over, it was recently time to purge the gardens for replanting—strip brittle bean vines and pull up dried tomato plants, uproot any remaining beets and harvest several ripe spaghetti squash. What…