As we face the unexpected crisis of isolating in our homes, many of us find ourselves coping with unprecedented stress and troubles. The circumstances oppress us and we struggle to live among those we may find prickly at times. David spent years under the oppression of a spiritually…
Christmas arrives in less than a week. In homes where we've been intense pain, our childlike hearts look forward to shared joys and enchanting moments we will remember in coming years. We also prepare to exchange gifts with those we love. For some, the sorrows of loss and suffering darken…
How to Pray by Listening by Crickett Keeth How would you describe your time in prayer? Do you do most of the talking, or is there a balance with listening? When we hear the words pray or prayer, we tend to think of speaking, not listening. When we pray, we…
Father's Day encourages us to celebrate the men who raise children in our world. For those who've lost or never experienced a nurturing dad, the holiday can prove bittersweet or even bitter. Some fathers face this day with grief, as they've lost children to death or estrangement. Those without the…
Fortunate folks huddle into homes gleaming with smiles. Fall decor gilds each room, while spiced scents draw them to a massive banquet of joy. Hugs lead family and guests to fill the seats around a table brimming with all manner of sweets and starches. A plump turkey gleams at the…
Her leaves drooped, threatening to crash against the plant stand. Just the day before, her stalks had held themselves together. But the weeks of my neglect took their toll and my favorite houseplant could no longer hold her beautiful head high. I carried her from the room with remorse over…
"Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume;…
In preparation for Easter, we'll continue our series this week to highlight revitalizing our spirituality. We've discussed mental, social, and physical health. These integrated parts of life weave together as a skin over the most vital substance of self--our core essence. [bctt tweet="Well being begins and ends with the state…
“Sacrifice thank offerings to God . . . and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me” (Psalm 50:14-15). Heels bouncing. Arms upraised. Palms waving. I did the happy dance today. Full-on, Snoopy-style. A long wait sweetens good news, and I had waited over a…
"The heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of his craftsmanship. Day and night they keep on telling about God" (Psalm 19:1-2). Tender grass bursts from the earth. Glimmering beetles scurry up to lily pinnacles and raise their antennae. My favorite gnarled oak ascends from a velvety…