The Gift of Love
Aw, the Thanksgiving and Christmas season is fast approaching! It’s getting close to the time for baking marathons, endless lists, gift wrapping that could rival the elves, and the annual budget “discussion” over what gifts we can actually afford to give. If you’re anything like me, there’s joy in giving, but let’s be real: the…
Election Day – God is Still in Control
We are off and running to our “last stand” (literally) as Election clerks this morning. We anticipate voting lines out the door. Heartfelt passion and commitment has been sensed during the days leading up to today. It’s Election Day, and the nation is buzzing. But before the votes are counted and decisions announced, let’s settle…
Learning to Lead AND Follow
It all started one Wednesday night at our church’s weekly family dinner. We overheard two couples chatting about their next dance class. We leaned in closer to hear more! Turns out, several couples from our church gather for a meal and then dive into dance classes. Take that a “dance-step” further – we jumped into…
The Noble Bench
Nestled in the heart of East Texas, beneath expansive skies where fish leap from the lake and hummingbirds dance in the air, lies our treasured Epiphany Ranch, home to our kids, Larry and Staci. This slice of heaven on earth encases the beauty and serenity of God’s creation, making it our sweet spot for heaven…
Prayer – As Natural As Breathing
Seems like God has me on a Prayer Enlightenment Journey, and it’s popping up everywhere, just like those white cars you start noticing the minute you buy one. I get it, Lord, I hear you loud and clear. Apparently, it’s time to amp up my communication with God! I’ll be straight with you, I’ve never…
Welcome to my SANCTUARY!
Years ago, a dear friend gave me this sign to remind me that I could live a life of peace if I simply took myself there. SANCTUARY is a place of refuge or safety, haven, shelter, hideaway, port in a storm. Indeed, my friend knew that I needed to be reminded of the SANCTUARY we…
A Moment of Silence
Though it is a beautiful sentiment to hear “Let us have a moment of silence for….”, I wish words of faith, hope and encouragement were said out loud. I know God hears our “inside voice” prayers, but Jesus said, “When you pray…SAY: “Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name…..” I visited with Dr. Google…
I Became a Mama Bear
It is Saturday. I am volunteering in my usual capacity at the family center. Outside, lines of people are here to receive a box of free food. Some people come – not because they are hungry. They come because they are welcome. No one is turned away. I am in the family center store at…
God’s 35,000 Feet View
It’s yesterday and it’s my birthday! And we’re on our way to I-Hop! It’s a redo of last year when my son asked where I’d like to go for my birthday. It was to I-Hop where a most charming waiter welcomed us and sang “Oh, Donna!” to me and the entire restaurant. To top it…
The Litany of Humility
Some time ago, I remember I was put off about something. I mentioned it to my son. He didn’t correct me or agree with me. He simply reached for his Bible and pulled out a sheet of paper from within the pages and showed me “The Litany of Humility”. He suggested that I make this…