Christmas tends to bring out the best and worst in people. If you’ve ever been to Wal-Mart on Black Friday, you have seen some of the worst — greed, selfishness, entitlement, rudeness. I could go on and on. We can become self-absorbed as we think about our “wants” for Christmas. On the flip side, we see the generosity of others as they give to those…
Thanksgiving…even though I am incredibly grateful for so much, this year the holidays are tainted with grief. I’m thankful for all the years I spent with my grandmother. She made an indelible impression on my life. I’m grateful for our Sunday phone calls, the daily prayers, and the times we spent together. There is a void in our family that is irreplaceable. The last couple…
Jeff and I were talking as we drove home after lunch. As we approached the hill, a young girl (4 or 5) came barreling toward us on her bicycle. Jeff slammed on the brakes, and exclaimed, “What is she doing?” At that moment, I looked up and saw the terrified expression on the girl’s face. She turned the steering wheel just in time to avoid…
We all go through periods when we need help from others. As I write this, I hear the Beatles song in my head: “I get by with a little help from my friends.” Who do you call on when you need help? I’m blessed with several good friends I can call when needed. While my friends are willing to do what they can to help,…
Recently, I’ve thought a lot about self-care. I’ve heard pastors say self-care is sinful and worldly. Psychologists describe self-care as “doing what brings you joy” and popular media says, “You do you.” I’ve wrestled with a biblical view of self-care and here are my thoughts. The reason most of us need better self-care is that we are running ourselves ragged. We are so prideful we…
I apologize for the silent treatment recently. To find balance during a season, I chose to give up a few things. I haven’t written in a while because I am learning to be still and quiet before God. He is teaching me to listen more and to speak less. He is teaching me patience and contentment in the waiting. While the silence can be maddening…