Practice Rich Habits of Faith to Minimize Distractions in a Noisy World

"These words that I command you today shall be on your heart."

Sunday Scripture "I don't need to listen to this," I said out loud (to myself) as I clicked out of my podcast app. The truth is, I could have information pouring into my eyes and ears every minute of the day: news, commentary on the news, audio books, book reviews, interviews, or conversations on the… Continue reading Practice Rich Habits of Faith to Minimize Distractions in a Noisy World

Gratitude: Look at the Loss and then Give Thanks

When we gather for our imperfect celebrations, our only hope for joy is to look at our loss and then to give thanks.

Thirty years ago, I married into a family that celebrated Thanksgiving Day with All-American fervor, featuring a day-long gathering and a loaded table. As the new bride, I was eager to prove that I had what it took to be the holiday hostess. Having done my research, I had planned all the best sides, multiple-choice… Continue reading Gratitude: Look at the Loss and then Give Thanks

Gratitude: A Matter of Obedience to the Will of God

Sunday Scripture According to the Apostle Paul, gratitude is more than a pumpkin-spice-feeling. It is a matter of obedience to the will of God. Author and poet Wendell Berry put words into the mouth of a fictional, elderly widow named Hannah Coulter who, in addition to being a crackerjack farmhand when needed and probably making… Continue reading Gratitude: A Matter of Obedience to the Will of God

When You Just Can’t Take It Any Longer

โ€œWherever you are, beย all there! Live to the hiltย everyย situation you believe to be the will of God.โ€ ~Jim Elliot

Over the weekend, I sat between two of my grandchildren and read them a story for the first time since we began sheltering at home. We celebrated the relaxation of strictย  quarantine here in rural Maine with our little group of eight. As everyone feasted on pizza and whoopie pies, I prayed that I would… Continue reading When You Just Can’t Take It Any Longer