By: Mark Persall In the first century, widows were often homebound, shut-in, and confined. She could not freely leave her residence if she had physical or medical constraints. Almost nobody paid a call, although a few might drop by briefly. As a result, the first-century disciples intentionally visited widows to ensure they were fed and cared for. Still, the task was …
There is something enchanting about getting out of the classroom and onto the streets, no matter your age. Even as an adult, I welcomed a break from reading characters and learning sentence patterns. Living internationally for 30 days had raised plenty of questions, and Rebecca’s field trips proved magical. Whenever we were together, I peppered my Taiwanese guide with cultural …
Unable to focus. Low to midrange anxiety. An overall feeling of yuckiness. I know this experience all too well. Looming and overwhelming, this emotion throws a damper onto every subsequent action. Both plans and projects are affected by a general impression that something is wrong. And that something is probably me. Ever felt that way? Over the years, I’ve found …
“For what man, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? (Luke 14:28). I stare at this parable, alternately condemning myself and making resolutions. “What tower am I building? What is my foundation? How can I build differently?” Then, gently, quietly, I hear …
Holy Father, I know that I am should come to You in great confidence, as You promised never to leave me (Hebrews 13:5-6). However Father, there are times that my emotions waiver and stumble. Indeed, You have authority over all my fleshliness (John 17:2) which includes my emotions. Yet, I also know there to be many days that my confidence …
During the twenty years that we lived overseas, I often lost track of upcoming American holidays. Before wide-spread internet connection, I have to admit that the last Monday of May was usually spent with end of the year parties and summer plans. Yet, I vividly remember my first Memorial Day weekend back in the states in 2007. As …
Nicole Burke is guest posting for me again today. I love the way she uses the simple things to challenge me to go deeper. Thanks again, Nicole. Check out her good stuff on Facebook. ——————————– A midwife appointment turns our morning on its end and I find myself at the Farmer’s Market right around noon on a Friday. I pull in …
It was one of those thought-provoking dreams. On a road stood a simple, covered tunnel. A pin-point of light beckoned me from the far end of the passageway. I realized that in order to experience the light-filled scenery on the other side, I had to go through this channel. Yet, I stood on the outside deliberating. Something about …
Holy Father, Thank You for choosing us as Your royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). When You beckoned us toward You, our very entrance into Your Presence is what set us apart. Yet, this distinction wasn’t just so that we could sit on a shelf and look good. No, we were chosen as people who would “obey and be …
Come My child, Bring your coffee with you and sit a moment. Our visits have been far too infrequent, don’t you agree? You’ve known My Presence. You’ve basked in My Love. But, for some reason My Radiance scares you a little. You tend to slip back into rote reading rather than Real Relationship. I came for abundance, remember …
