I was busy in the kitchen making our three-year-old daughter’s lunch. She was sitting at our kitchen island, humming and swinging her legs as they dangled down from her stool as she looked out the sliding glass door to our sunny backyard. Still swinging her legs, she asked, “Mom? Is somebody reading a story about … Continue reading
When we moved into our house this past July, just four months ago, the previous owners left us so many surprises…like REALLY GOOD surprises. A lawn mower. A wheelbarrow. Stand alone storage cabinets. Mid-century modern shelves. A cozy vintage chair and footrest. Tools and a work bench in the garage. Even a Star Wars collectible … Continue reading
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 2:2-5 Memory Verse: “Come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!” (Isaiah 2:5) Prayer: Dear God,Let us be people of your peace.As the darkness grows longer each day,Let us walk in the light of your love and grace.Amen Reflection: This coming Sunday, December 1, is the first Sunday of Advent. … Continue reading
I have been thinking a lot about prayer lately. I had my bi-weekly appointment scheduled with my spiritual director this week, and I wanted to talk to her about my thoughts on prayer, but she was sick, so I have been hashing this one out on my own. So, let’s pretend that you are all … Continue reading
November 20, 2013 If you’re reading this in a public place, look around at people walking. Otherwise, imagine someone walking through the room where you are or past where you’re sitting. How fast is the walker (real or imagined) going? Normal pace? A little brisk, perhaps? Now take what you just saw and imagine slowing … Continue reading
Prayer: Encircle us and embrace us, God. As the days get shorter, visit us in the busyness of our lives. Awaken us with crisp winds to see your blessings all around us. You are here. We are here. Encircle us in your love. Amen. Scripture: Luke 17:11-19 On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going … Continue reading
It’s been a couple of weeks now since we set our clocks back. I’ve noticed that after that first initial rush of happiness about getting an extra hour of sleep, it seems that nobody much likes the changed clocks, or indeed, this time of year. While it is nice to get out your boots and … Continue reading
Some time ago my wife left town, leaving me with my daughter for the weekend. The possibilities were endless. We could do whatever we wanted. But we needed a plan. What would she enjoy? Where should we go? I wanted to be a good dad, and as all parents know, coolness is correlative to one’s … Continue reading
“For like the days of a tree shall the days of my people be.” Isaiah 65:22 Ever since taking a week long tree identification course in the forests of Southern Ohio two years ago, I’ve been trying to be more like a tree. Getting to know the names of our natives trees was valuable enough, … Continue reading
The Forerunners of Christ with Saints and Martyrs (about 1423-24) Tempera on wood, 31,9 x 63,5 cm cm National Gallery, London by Fra Angelica Over the last week or two at church, I’ve been talking with the children about All Saints Day. I drew the connection to Halloween as All Hallow’s Eve, and saints as … Continue reading
Practicing Families 