By Marcia Ostendorff Luke 13:1-9 | Isaiah 55:1-9 Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, ‘See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, … Continued
By Keith Vaughn Psalm 27 | Luke 13:31-35 Do you remember a time in your life that you felt most safe? Possibly it was as a child in the secure and loving arms of your mother or father. Perhaps you were hunkered down in your bed with the blankets pulled up over your head after … Continued
By Jill Pike Wilderness. The word conjures up all sorts of images of isolation, emptiness, and vulnerability. One definition of wilderness is “an inhospitable and desolate region of fear and discomfort.” Yet, there is another definition which describes the term in a spiritual sense. When we are in a spiritual wilderness, it is a period … Continued
By Bob Millikan We are celebrating women’s history this month by highlighting the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. Women’s History Month is celebrated during March in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, corresponding with International Women’s Day on March 8. Susan B. Anthony It seems very appropriate to start with Susan B. Anthony. She was … Continued
As Ash Wednesday draws near, many of us may already be thinking about our Lenten practices. What kind of intention will we set this year to help us return to God with renewed commitment? Traditionally, Christians give something up for this season. They’ll abstain from things like alcohol, chocolate, or other guilty pleasures. In a … Continued
I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to … Continued
Psalm 77: 11-14 What were your favorite memories? It is rare that anyone giving relationship advice would recommend looking at your phone. However, following the advice of the original article that started this journey of reflection, I picked up my phone and scrolled through the photographic memories marking my pandemic journey. I expected to find … Continued
Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong. -2 Corinthians 12:10 In what areas did you thrive? What do you consider your successes? Is the Kelly Clarkson song stuck in your head now? I can’t seem to get … Continued
As February ushers in fun holidays and traditions like Groundhog’s Day, Valentine’s Day, the Super Bowl, and the Lunar New Year, it also offers the opportunity to recognize those who played a central, but often underrepresented role in US history. From February 1 through March 1, we observe Black History Month, a chance to celebrate and … Continued
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Do not fear, I will help you.” -Isaiah 41:13 What were your biggest challenges and struggles? As the Prepare-Enrich post points out, when we are in the midst of difficulty, we cannot understate the significance of our struggles. … Continued