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
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
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
The past can hurt, but the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it. -Rafiki, The Lion King [video clip linked here] I don’t know about you, but as the clock struck midnight, signaling the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022, my heart was full of relief. I … Continued
By Steve Rose Just when it seemed we were turning the corner toward “home,” and toward a state of something more normal this past Christmas, we now suffer yet another setback in our journey through this two-year long pandemic, as we face the rapid spread of the COVID-19 omicron variant in this new year. Over … Continued
I was totally spoiled in the food department as a child. My mom is probably the best cook I know. She can make something delicious from just about any combination of random pantry ingredients. My friends always wanted to come to our house and the action always happened around the kitchen island because they all … Continued
By Anna Beth Cross What does it mean to be home? During this time of year, we hear a lot of phrases such as “home is where your heart is,” especially if you watch as many Christmas Hallmark movies or Rom-Coms like I do. The idea of home leaves us with questions…where is home? Who … Continued