Having just traveled a few states to work in the summer heat, it was admirable how upbeat the youth were. Their mission trip involved hard work laboring to repair homes and make helpful upgrades. They spent a lot of time in one house rebuilding part of a damaged wall. Everything from measuring to cutting to patching to painting was involved. But when they got there the next morning, the wall was broken through again. An angry, intoxicated individual had decided to smash it in. Chances Continue Reading
What If We Let God be God This Year? {Recharge Wednesday LINKUP}
Besides parties, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight, the term “brand-new” conjures up all kinds of hopes and dreams. Although a new year brings excitement about what lies ahead, it may also bring uneasiness about what’s expected of us. Or, what we expect of ourselves. Then, we make grandiose resolutions and plans and dream bigger and bigger with each passing year trying to top the previous one. But I never make resolutions. There’s too much burden in making, keeping, measuring, and Continue Reading
LINKUP: Past Failures Should Not Define the New Year {The Atlanta Journal-Constitution}
The 11th chapter of the book of Hebrews in the New Testament lists the names of men and women of faith who trusted God through trials and impossible situations. The list includes the Jewish patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It also mentions leaders whose lives greatly impacted the story of God’s people, including Joseph, Moses, Gideon, Joshua, King David and the prophets. But amid characters who undeniably deserve to receive the “Hall of Faith” trophy, some names often make Continue Reading
Don’t Let Unrealistic Expectations Ruin Your Christmas {Recharge Wednesday LINKUP}
Daddy loved Christmas. He decorated our tree, played games, and bought nice gifts, especially for Mama. I entered marriage thinking all husbands gave their wives nice Christmas gifts. Being in ministry, I didn’t expect diamonds. But I thought I’d get something special. Our first Christmas together I asked for something pretty and practical—a leather day planner. I unwrapped my gift. It was a planner. A vinyl planner. Not even pleather that at least resembles leather! No chocolate, no Continue Reading
Good News When You’re Waiting {Recharge Wednesday LINKUP}
"But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'" (Luke 2:10) Most of the time, we're waiting on good news of some kind. We're checking our inboxes, hoping for the call or the text, and scrolling our social media feeds. Maybe we're waiting on something monumental, or perhaps just a little happy moment. What good news are you waiting for? The announcement of a milestone moment in a loved one's life? The baby to be born? Continue Reading
The Gift of Grace {Recharge Wednesday LINKUP}
When we think of Christmas gifts, our thoughts ponder what to buy that family member who has everything. Or, the person who is particular in their taste. Perhaps we wonder what treasures lay under the tree for us. But what are those intangible gifts we can offer to others and hope to receive in return? As I was pondering things like love, forgiveness, encouragement (all great gifts), the Lord captured my attention when He whispered to my heart: Karen, grace is the greatest gift, a good Continue Reading
