How Jesus meets us in distraction
I took a deep breath as we got in the car. We did it. We managed to get all five children in the car to go to church, and we are only going to be 5…
Living out God’s original plan for family
I believe with all my heart that the first, best community God created was the family. During creation, on day six he built his masterpiece: humans.…
Storms are inevitable
The storms are inevitable. Everyone experiences times in their lives that are filled with anxious thoughts and difficult choices. And raising…
Seeing ourselves through the eyes of the Father
“For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (John 1:18 NIV). As I sat with a blank document in front of me, having not written in…
This one choice can make or break your year
I was mad. Hurt. Fed up. Over what? Oh, the usual. My husband—can’t he see I need some attention? My kids—why are they acting so entitled? Did I…
The traveling circus: Friendships in every stage of parenting
When my kids were younger, I felt like I was living in a circus. Constant activity. Animals everywhere—actual dogs, costumed children, stuffed— My…
The next right thing
“Just do the next right thing. Take a step, step again. It is all that I can do. The next right thing. I won't look too far ahead. It's too much for…
Having fun is an act of hope
One of my goals this past year was to have more fun. I am pragmatic to a fault, so I confess, I had to put “fun” on my to-do list. As I write, I can…
Look up, parents: You are seen, known, and chosen
I opened up my Bible next to a window overlooking our backyard and was about to delve into the Gospel of Mark, when I looked up to see a baby deer…
