The surprising gift of silence
This is a loud season, full of good busy and hard questions, for most of us. Even as we strive for simplicity, we see others for whom "simplicity" is not a choice but their only [...]
The surprising secret to experiencing abundance
We all long for it: the abundant life. I don't know about you, but I stand against a scarcity mentality steeped in fear. I want to believe that I have more than enough, even when [...]
Radical hospitality trumps hate
On Thursday, my friend Jane and I drove to Chicago to welcome a refugee family. Jane’s van was loaded with supplies: linens, towels, pots and pans, dishes, and more—the basics needed to set up home. [...]
Jesus is in the house (not in the stable!)
Tonight, people will gather in churches around the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Many will reenact, by way of Christmas play with children, or some modern mega-church iteration of Christmas drama, the lonely [...]
What are you passionate about?
What are you passionate about? Have you ever had a conversation, been asked a question, and later, after the conversation was over, thought, “I should have said…I should have asked…” This happens to me. All. [...]
Wise as serpents, harmless as doves?
Among the panicked Scripture quotes I’m seeing this week in response to the escalating refugee crisis, I’m noticing a lot of this one lately: “be wise as serpents, gentle as doves.” They apply this by [...]
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 [...]
How to get more out of reading the Bible
When we're really familiar with the Bible, it can seem a bit dry, or overly familiar. We miss out on a chance to encounter God. Two practices can help us: slowing down, and digging deeper. [...]
What is your heart full of?
Garbage in, garbage out. This is true in business, in computer programing, in living. It's true of our heart, mind, and soul. So the question becomes: what are you putting into your mind? What do [...]
You are #DeeplyLoved (even if you doubt it)
“I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) One of the best gifts I gave my kids, according to them, was the freedom to doubt and question their faith. This may seem counter-intuitive. [...]