“Snow Days” Whether you love it, hate it, or accept it as a part of life in the Midwest, winter weather has hit us hard this week. Last evening, I came across a reflection from a colleague of mine, Matt, about lessons we can learn from snow days. I invite you to consider your need … [Read more…]
“Out of Tragedy” It’s my first real memory. It took place this day 36 years ago. Our whole first grade was assembled in the school’s library excitedly focused on the large (30 inch) television that had been wheeled into the middle of the room. After the librarian attached the cables to the television and the … [Read more…]
This will be a brief update this week. It is Friday afternoon and I just received word that I have tested positive for Covid. My symptoms are mild for the most part. I ask for prayers for the rest of my family, that I haven’t passed this along to them. On a related note, Tuesday … [Read more…]
The next day, Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” John 1:43 I can still remember it vividly. We were sitting in chairs under the shade of an old oak tree in Sam’s backyard. It was a warm summer afternoon. Sam’s son and daughter were running around the … [Read more…]
“Feels Like” I’m wearing my warmest sweater, with the thermostat raised a bit, with a cup of hot coffee near me and I’ve only begrudgingly taken off my gloves to type this note. It is cold! Before I left the house this morning I made the mistake of looking at the monitor for our weather … [Read more…]
“Thoughts on Christmas” With Christmas less than 48 hours away, I thought I would use this space to share some thoughts from some very well-respected voices about the importance and meaning of Christmas. I hope you are as blessed by these thoughts as I have been. Blessings and Merry Christmas, Chris It is Christmas every … [Read more…]
Unexpected Gifts – We’re in the season of gift giving, and if you’re still shopping, chances are you approaching the point of trying to find something for someone and have no idea what they want/need. This can be especially frustrating when you are shopping for someone who is difficult to buy for – those who … [Read more…]
Confession of the Pastor’s Wife: Miracle vs. Magic There’s a certain glow that comes with Christmastime–a soft-focus lens on the world that is suddenly strung with warmly hued lights. The air seems suddenly scented with pine, and we all breathe a little fuller in the crisp cleanness of it. Carols ring around us, Bing Crosby’s … [Read more…]
Confessions of the Pastor’s Wife: Prickly Pears: The Judgment Dilemma A little while ago, my husband called me on his way home from church and told me that a good friend would be stopping by as he made his way through town. We live right off an Interstate highway in the middle of Missouri, so … [Read more…]
“Giving Thanks Faithfully” Thanksgiving is typically my favorite holiday. It involves some of my favorite food, spending time with family, and mostly relaxing (except for that whole preparing a big meal thing). Given that it’s my favorite holiday, I’m one of those people who grumbles as the whole idea of starting to celebrate Christmas … [Read more…]