The snowdrops by the door lift upward, sweet and pure, their delicate bells; and soon in the calm blaze of noon, by lowly window-sills will laugh the daffodils! Celia Thaxter (1836 – 1894) The snowdrops and crocuses are blooming in my yard. The cherry tree is still barren but soon it will have leaves and blossoms… Continue reading The Promise of Spring
Category: Faith
Joy Beyond Grief
Many years ago, I received a small blue book in the mail. On the cover page is a little note. In memory of Steven. A Lamaze instructor, a colleague of mine, sent the book after my son passed away. The title of the book is Heaven, and it was written by Joseph Bayly. Bayly also suffered the… Continue reading Joy Beyond Grief
Tending the Family
Family relationships are a vital part of our life. The fifth and sixth chapters of Ephesians focuses on the family. Chapter five begins with Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love . . . In our human, imperfect nature we have problems in family relationships. We make assumptions. We are self-centered. Lisa… Continue reading Tending the Family
A Healing Event
For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord. Jeremiah 30:17a Jesus healed many people during his ministry on earth. In the eighth chapter of Matthew the healing of a leper, the Centurion’s son, Peter’s mother-in-law and two demon possessed men are recorded. In addition: That evening they… Continue reading A Healing Event
Life Lessons from Jordan Peterson
Have you ever gone to a presentation when the audience gave a standing ovation when the speaker walked out onto the stage? Have you ever seen a speaker appear wearing a suit that is a golden pumpkin color on his right side and a muted blue on his left side, shoes the color of calendula… Continue reading Life Lessons from Jordan Peterson
Finding Joy in Daily Life
The snow outside is bright white and glistening. The thermometer reads 0 degrees Fahrenheit, and yet I am able to take a hot shower in a warm house. It is a blessing! Everyday there are little and significant blessings in our lives when we pause to take notice. I am thankful that I have a… Continue reading Finding Joy in Daily Life
Beginning the Year in the Word
We have a framed verse from Isaiah on our wall. It is a reminder of the steadfast love of God. Our relationship with God guides us day by day, despite disruptions and chaos in our world. One of the ways that we nurture a relationship with God is through his Word. Over the past year… Continue reading Beginning the Year in the Word
The Shepherds Came
As we celebrate Christmas, the wonder of God’s plan still amazes. God sent his Son to a human family. God designed the family and He affirmed it. The angels announced the birth of a Savior to shepherds watching their flocks, and gave them a sign. The shepherds went to Bethlehem, remembering the sign. They would… Continue reading The Shepherds Came
The Ending is Good
It has been a number of years since I sat in the Michigan stadium in Ann Arbor, but I still follow the football team of my alma mater. Last Saturday the game was tense. The Wolverines were losing to Illinois when I set the TV to record the remainder of the game. I was going… Continue reading The Ending is Good
Giving Thanks in November
Thanksgiving is coming. As I shop and make plans for preparing special dishes (the cornbread dressing everyone loves), I’m giving thanks for . . . Sharing this post with the Five Minute Friday writing community .