I have never planted a tree by accident. And I've planted a lot of trees. As a gardener, I'm continually adding just the right flowers, shrubs and trees to my yard to achieve my vision for the mature landscape. I think about what it will look like in five years. In ten years. When I... Continue Reading →
A New Story
God is writing a new story on the pages of my life. Not a tale I would have chosen...one that requires not only an umbrella, but a sword. And some sturdy hiking boots. But see the pen over there, on the right? It's His pen. His story. And, as Elizabeth Goudge says of her character,... Continue Reading →
A Prayer for New Beginnings
Today, I'd like to share a prayer that has been meaningful to me on my faith journey. This prayer, found in the book, Celtic Benediction by J. Philip Newell, expresses a longing for the Holy Spirit to work in our lives in a new and fresh way. Are you aching for this, too? In the... Continue Reading →
5 Questions You Must Ask Before the New Year
I don't make New Year's resolutions. However, being the contemplative that I am, I do spend time reviewing the year and asking God to give me a scripture...a vision, if you will, for the upcoming year. Many years ago now, I sat in church a week before the new year, taking notes on the obligatory... Continue Reading →
The Gift
The Gift. In days gone by, "The Gift" was the name for the Holy Spirit. Isn't that a lovely thought? We know Him as the Counselor...the Comforter...the Advocate. But the saints of old called Him "The Gift". In the midst of your busy holiday season, take time to reflect on these words by Bernard of... Continue Reading →
Francis de Sales: Living in God’s Presence, Part 3
"...Consider our Savior in His humanity looking down from heaven on all mankind, but especially on Christians, who are His children; and more particularly on such as are at prayer, whose actions and behavior He minutely observes." ¹ In this four-part series, we are examining Francis de Sales' recommendations for how to be aware of God... Continue Reading →