New beginnings have a way of defining us. We begin new jobs, new family structures, new habits, and new visions. There is refreshment in starting something that has been unseen and unexplored. But starting again does not necessarily mean starting over. When I was young I lived with the … [Read more...] about Happy New Year: Starting Again Does Not Mean Starting Over
Devotion/Morning Meditation
Monday Morning Meditation: Look for the Cherries: Finding and Giving Encouragement
The kids scrambled out of the car. They donned their masks as we made our way to the cherry stand. We checked in with the elderly hosts, as they grinned at our kids and told them to look for the ribbons to fill our buckets with cherries. The kids ran through the spacious orchard. Excited to … [Read more...] about Monday Morning Meditation: Look for the Cherries: Finding and Giving Encouragement
Finding Peace in Prayer
Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! (Psalm 61:4,ESV) The ways that God works in the unseen, is always a surprise. Sometimes we wonder if our prayers for protection and peace are strong enough and then He quietly reveals a glimpse of His … [Read more...] about Finding Peace in Prayer
Go Means Go: Following Christ’s Lead: Monday Morning Meditation
There is a natural wonder not far from where I call home. The mouth of the Metolius River begins where water bubbles from a spring under the earth. In a grove of trees there is nothing and mere feet away a dribble becomes a river that meanders through parts of Central Oregon. This last week, … [Read more...] about Go Means Go: Following Christ’s Lead: Monday Morning Meditation
Friendship when Life is Hard: We Need Each Other
Against the backdrop of a dirt yard and a shut down world, my flowering plum trees seems extra breathtaking this month. It could be that I am noticing the little things more. I am reflecting on life a little deeper, as I suspect you may be. I recently was reminded, through these simple trees … [Read more...] about Friendship when Life is Hard: We Need Each Other
Three Prayers of Jesus
I quickly read the message on my phone. "I prayed for you today". These five words followed by a small heart were all it took to lift my spirits. It had been a rough day. My kids were struggling, I was feeling pulled a myriad of directions, and peace and quiet were nowhere to be found. My … [Read more...] about Three Prayers of Jesus