Monday officially kicks off 2022 for me. The first two days of 2021 were spent celebrating Jesus’ birth, our family and welcoming the new year. The time was chaotic, funny, affirming and filled with food fit for a king. At one point in the preparation process, my daughter and I looked at each other and …
The last day of 2021. It seems almost surreal that another year is finishing. Today I caught up with accumulated mail which included Christmas greetings from friends and family. As I perused the letters included with cards, as well as some Facebook greetings, I noticed how well these recaps were a fitting closure to the …
28 “But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? 29Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. 30They would say, ‘There’s the person who …
As I walked the beach looking for treasures, I pondered the last year. What do I want to take forward with me? What do I want to leave behind? 5Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which …
Lindsey Stirling is an American violinist who performs worldwide. Today I invite you to step into the subway with Lindsey as she performs, completely disguised. Watch until the 3:15 mark and ponder the question she asks. Then watch just a few moments more to hear her answer it. Do you see the gift?
8And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then …
In a world riddled with chaos and conflict, the concept of experiencing peace that is deep and real seems illusive. Yet that is just what scripture promises! There is a formula, when applied in faith, that ushers a supplicant into the peace of God that is beyond understanding! 7Then you will experience God’s peace, which …
This week the focus is peace — peace that is beyond understanding. The quiet strength that seeps through everything regardless of circumstances. How do I access that kind of incredible staying power? There is a formula! Step one: practice joy. Step two: relinquish worry into Father’s capable hands and thank him while you’re there! 6Don’t …
The final week before Christmas. I wonder what it is like at your house. Are the decorations up? Cookies baked? Candy covered in chocolate? Presents bought and wrapped? Christmas music playing softly in the background while you sip a cup of Holiday Blend? That sounds so peaceful! I sincerely hope that is what you are …
22But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 Last week I wrote about love. Not the kind of love displayed in Hallmark Christmas movies or the love expressed for dark chocolate peanut clusters, …