Finding the path
We run downhill on a single track through a lush Midwestern woods, sunlight and green rushing past. Our feet staccato over roots and stones, undergrowth brushing our legs as we fly. I let out a [...]
What the Bible really says about women: Can women preach?
First in an occasional series. “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. 29 Even on [...]
Xenophobia and philoxenia (or, what is biblical hospitality?)
A common critique put on 21st Century Christians is that they are better known for what they are against, than what they are for. I don't think this is true of all Christians--but the criticism [...]
Discovering your voice
“What would happen if one woman told the truth about her life? The world would split wide open.” Muriel Rukeyser, poet, feminist, political activist What does it mean to discover and use your voice? What [...]
Head of the household?
“Why did God make man the head of the household?” That question stared up at me from the study one of the men in our small group had written. We were discussing a chapter from [...]
Why you need play as a spiritual practice
"Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly." (Jesus, in Matthew 11:30) Sunday, I sat on [...]
Why the life of faith needs questions
Sometimes, I find that the life of faith has more questions than answers. Questions about the Bible and what it means, and how to live out our faith. Questions about how we treat people if [...]
Doing things that are hard
At about 3 a.m., I am running in a warm, foggy rain down a wooded path, somewhere just south of Racine, Wisconsin. My glasses are constantly fogging up (why did I think taking out my [...]
Three Bible Words That Might Surprise You
Taking time each day to read the Bible can help us grow spiritually, and experience God’s love. Truth? I am sometimes tempted to skip this spiritual practice or hurry through it, because I think I've [...]
The mothering God gives
Mother's Day can be rough. If you're childless but not by choice, if you recently lost your mom, if you have ever lost a child, Mother's Day can simply hurt. If you're in a mothering [...]