What brings you joy? In this third week of Advent, we continue counting down to Christmas with a spirit of Joy. His joy in us has the power to make our joy complete. Biblical joy is more than a happy feeling. For the psalmist knowing […]
Tag: Advent
A Recipe For Peace
I just started reading Tabitha Brown’s cookbook, Cooking From the Spirit. In this inspirational book, none of the recipes have to be followed as written; she gives a list of ingredients, but the final result? Well, honey, as Tab would say, “That’s your business!” As […]
Seven Ways to Hope
As we settle into the first week of Advent, I’ve noticed seven ways to hope in Him. I’ve used these words in reflecting, praying, and meditating. Each day, as I walk, I choose one and ponder its depth and significance. Types of Hope Confident. Romans […]
The Gift That You Cannot Buy
It’s that time of year when we check our lists against our available funds to determine who gets what. But what about the gift you cannot buy? The gift that is a sacrifice and not an item on your to-do list. As we count down […]
Did They Know?
A Canaanite, a prostitute, a Moabite, and a wronged wife. These four women, Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba, are listed in Matthew’s account of the lineage of Christ. This week I’ve been contemplating the advent story, and I wonder what did they know about their […]
React or respond?
I confess that I often react when I should respond. Especially when I feel someone is being critical. But this morning, as I was about to lift a heavy weight, a woman said, “Don’t think about it; just do it.” I wanted to explain the […]
Unexpected Favor
Elizabeth. I underline her name nine times in 7 different verses. In this second week of Advent, my attention turns to Elizabeth. Her story is tucked neatly inside the experiences of her husband, Zechariah, and her relative, Mary. Elizabeth’s testimony speaks of unexpected favor and […]
Fasting for Advent
Advent is a sacred holiday season, and this first week of Advent is about Hope. As a personal trainer, I hear about Hope as my clients express their goals. The women I work with face various challenges while seeking to improve their overall well-being. This […]
Four Days and Three Nights
We made reservations and paid in advance for our stay. We eagerly counted down the days until the appointed check-in time. Upon our arrival, we receive a warm welcome. Four days and three nights, carved out for our 40th anniversary get-away. Standing on the seashore […]
Are Those Your Real Arms?
What is the most unusual question you’ve heard? I have to admit, “Are those your real arms?” still has me scratching my head. After all, I’m confident he knew my arms were real, so perhaps there was another reason for his question. This encounter led […]