I wobbled to my feet, dazed, and wiped the blood from my nose. That's one heck of a right cross. I'd just been knocked out by a forgotten resolution with a vendetta. Before I even realized I was in the ring, I was on my back. In case you're worried, this situation played out in... Continue Reading →
This week concludes a coaching/mentoring relationship I've been enjoying for the past six months. While I'm sad to see something so beautiful end, I rejoice in what God has done and am expectant about what He has in store next. I've learned so much from my sweet leader, and I'd love to pass on one... Continue Reading →
Eden shattered, humanity longs for a life-giving orchard to rise up once again. For the past two months, we've been inspecting this garden God promises to grow in us. Let's wrap up our study on the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and now self-control. A man without self-control... Continue Reading →
The days are getting warmer, and the budding trees hint that winter has finally faded. What a perfect chance to bond with some girlfriends over a springtime adventure! All you need is a camera and a happy heart. Whether you choose to check off the items on this list or create your own, I hope... Continue Reading →
At the risk of sounding like a creeper, I adore watching older couples in love. Their passion is far removed from teenage puppy love or a flirtation at the bar between twenty-somethings. There's a quality of richness and depth about it—endurance. Perseverance. Faithfulness. This hard-won romance is the stuff Hollywood movies should really be made... Continue Reading →
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to His teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to Him and said, "Lord,... Continue Reading →
I love a good underdog story, and apparently, so does God. We've seen how He has historically used the last things one would expect to bring His kingdom in our hearts—not brilliance or power or fame or determination. Against all odds, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness win the day. This upside-down life of... Continue Reading →
Goodness gracious! Well, for goodness' sake! Good heavens! A kid growing up in the south might consider goodness as an expletive for church ladies. We, however, know the truth: we can widen our trunks and stretch up to the sky as the Spirit grows this particular fruit in our lives, yielding a rich harvest. And... Continue Reading →
Hello, slushy, squishy, sloppy April! You're the gorgeous transition of snow shovels to umbrellas, and I adore how we never know quite what to do with you. Let the budding trees and returning sparrows call forth praise, the earthworms and moss sing for joy! It's hard for me to imagine God without hands covered in... Continue Reading →
We're halfway through our study on the fruit of the Spirit: so far we've considered love, joy, peace, and patience. Now let's turn our attention to kindness. And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, “May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead!” (Ruth 2:20a) Kindness is stronger... Continue Reading →
The Dwelling Place 