Can you believe it’s 2024? I have to admit I do not feel ready for this new year. How about you? Are you ready? If you’re not, that question may have surfaced some unpleasant emotions. It applies pressure, doesn’t it? It communicates somehow that it’s up to you to hurry up and get ready! When our … [Read more...] about Ready or Not
The Consolation of Christmas
Last night we slept through the longest night of the year. Those of us who got any sleep, that is. Churches held “Blue Christmas” or “Longest Night” services for anyone needing time and space to acknowledge their pain and grief. And if any year deserved such a service where I come from, it would be … [Read more...] about The Consolation of Christmas
The Weight of Waiting
Are you counting down the days to Christmas? I can hardly believe that in less than a week we will be enjoying the feasting and merriment of Christmas Day. It seems the way Advent has fallen on the calendar this year, with the fourth Sunday actually landing on Christmas Eve, the wait is passing by a … [Read more...] about The Weight of Waiting
What a Waste!?
They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. - Matthew 14:20 In the darkness of early morning, I lie on the couch, breathing deeply and trying to relax. A few minutes earlier I had bolted out of bed after waking up to … [Read more...] about What a Waste!?
Who Needs Jesus?
“I don’t need Jesus! My shift is almost over,” giggled the cashier who was scanning my New Year’s Eve treats. She was right about one thing. Her shift was almost over. I had dashed into the nearest grocery store just before closing time to pick up a few last minute celebratory snacks for ringing in … [Read more...] about Who Needs Jesus?
Whispers of Hope
“Do you think you can eat some breakfast this morning?” My husband and I gently urged our nine year old daughter to look at the hospital menu. “French toast sounds good,” she replied, to our delight. Looking at the options, we asked if she wanted berries and whipped cream with it. “Yes!” Was … [Read more...] about Whispers of Hope