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
Category: Family
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
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
Why Didn’t I Take the Shot?
Our family’s experience with vaccines goes back a number of years. As we struggled with health problems, I prayed for God’s guidance in supporting my children’s health. Here is my story. Like every mother I have pursued health for my children. They all received childhood vaccines, but were prone to frequent ear infections, gastrointestinal upset… Continue reading Why Didn’t I Take the Shot?
Christmas, Grandchildren and Books
We were blessed to have all ten grandchildren with us to celebrate Christmas. It was noisy but full of family joy. On Christmas Eve we all went to church together–my daughters and their families, my son and his family. We listened to portions of Old Testament scripture pointing to the Messiah and New Testament scripture… Continue reading Christmas, Grandchildren and Books
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 .
Repairing Our Communication
This morning I went to the post office and the farmer’s market. The main road on my way is still under repair, being resurfaced. One lane is shut down and it slows down the flow of traffic. But the end result will be an improvement. My thoughts turn to communication in our country. We are… Continue reading Repairing Our Communication