November often beckons our hearts into a posture of gratitude as we move towards the end of another year, culminating in the celebration meal of Thanksgiving. As time drew near for another update on my 2023 One Word Hope, adding ways my heart feels thankful for Hope seemed the perfect update. My dear friend and fearless leader of our One…
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Thankful for Hope
Authenticity in Becoming Christ’s Beloved
Watching the stunning display of fall foliage reminds me the season of Autumn speaks about becoming. The art of slowly changing, and within the change emerges a kind of truth unseen previously. We experience a similar authenticity in becoming Christ’s beloved within our spiritual journey. Though at times our own blossoming of authenticity feels painful, the colors of Autumn remind…
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Embracing Rhythms of Rest
As the holiday season fast approaches, for the first time in many years my mind shifts towards embracing rhythms of rest. While friends and colleagues shift into high gear and overwhelm, my heart leans into a more mindful, slower pace. What if rhythms of rest offered the answer to the deepest longings of our hearts and families during the busiest…
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Gratitude For God’s Sufficient Grace
Welcoming November often turns the thoughts of our hearts to gratitude. It seems gratitude always has more to teach us with each passing year. Recently I sat with the intricately woven idea of gratitude for God’s sufficient grace. Fully understanding God’s grace extended to me through the undeserved favor of God and others shines forth in humble gratitude which honors…
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Trusting God in Uncertainty
In the times in which we live, trusting God in uncertainty presents a challenge for most of us. Recently reading in the Book of Proverbs, verse 27:1 seemed especially appropriate for the challenges we face: “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” We become comfortable with our expectations of tomorrow, next week, next…
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Releasing My Prodigal to God
Stretching over several years, my fear of unknowns surrounding my prodigal son and daughter, abides unhindered. Part of a yet unanswered prayer, admitting my apprehension for their welfare seems a lack of faith. Even more difficult was releasing my prodigal to God. Yet with each passing year of unknowns regarding their whereabouts or well-being, my fear etches deeper upon my…
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The One Thing You Need
When life kicks you in the gut, and the darkness of your hard path feels suffocating, though you long for the comfort of a loved one or friend, what is the one thing you need most? This isn’t a trick question, but the thing you need most is often the thing you lose first: HOPE. Sometimes in your pain, disappointment or…
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Impatient for Change
Among the many enjoyable and fun filled activities of Autumn, watching the stunning foliage changes captivates me every year. Almost as soon as September arrives, I eagerly anticipate the miraculous transformation, which seems to happen overnight. As I thought about my restlessness in waiting for Autumn’s gift of color, God reminded me how often I am impatient for change in…
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Lost Blooms Are Not Lost Growth
Perhaps the only downside to Autumn for me is fewer blooms in my garden. Small groups of summer blooms linger until the first hard frost; mums and Autumn Joy pop up here and there, but by and large, the profuse color of spring and summer has ceased. But lost blooms are not lost growth! While showy blooms capture our delight,…
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