Tag Archives: Spiritual Formation

When was the last time someone patted you on the back and said, “Don’t give up hope!”? Memes, movies, testimonials, self-help books, friends and Bible verses all tell us to expect a rendezvous with joy. We are told that we shouldn’t lose hope when life seems enveloped in darkness, disappointment, loss or uncertainty; but after enough gut-wrenching disappointments, it appears …

Ahh … July! Summer is in full swing, and the heat is high. I’m enjoying the beautiful, hot days, though, because the winter snowstorms that hit the northeast made winter seem like it was never going to end. As much as I love winter and snow (I’m a Florida native and always wanted to live in the snow), I was …

As I was walking up the gigantic hill towards my NYC apartment, I noticed a silver 10-cent coin glistening in the sun. I heard the Lord’s still, small voice whisper, “Pick it up.” My quick and unfiltered response was: “That’s silly, I don’t need 10 cents, plus the guy sitting on the stoop will think I’m pathetic, or poor, or …

What troubles your mind today? What distressing thoughts or concerns are stealing your peace and joy? Poor self-image? Negative self-defeatism? A wayward child? A prodigal past? Unanswered prayers? God’s silence in the midst of your storms? Job stress or possible loss? Home foreclosure or other financial needs? Confusion about God’s will for your life? What you can and cannot control? …

While on vacation recently, I noticed a boat moored to a pier. What caught my attention was its hull, which was covered in barnacles. Now, I am no expert on barnacles or boats. But I suspect anyone who has owned a boat or lived near the water can confirm these determined little parasites are not good for a boat. They …

What a splendid life Eve enjoyed before getting snared by the snake! As I imagine the picturesque life she relished in the garden, I wonder how Eve was so easily tempted. In my mind, it was a bliss-filled paradise, and I can’t fathom her longing for more. Everything at her fingertips was lush and delicious. Clearly, she wasn’t walking around …

Recently, I was talking with a close Christian brother. He lives in a different city than I do, yet we see each other fairly often. We met for coffee and to talk about life and work. My friend is a man of courage and integrity. He is a great father and husband. He is intelligent and a graduate of one of the …

I’ve buried far too many people in my life. Too many funerals, too many missed opportunities for one last goodbye, too many loved ones missing from the holiday gatherings. At a recent home-going of a dear friend, I tried to visualize what she experienced as she awoke in heaven. What a blissful thought! Waking up and finding yourself wrapped in …

When I was a kid, transitions used to excite me. I loved the adventure of moving. I loved change. I also loved playing outside games on dark summer nights. I think that’s because, as a kid, I never did any of these activities alone. As a single adult, I hate transitions. They make me feel unsettled and insecure. I feel …

Many years ago, I attended a large women’s conference in Southern California. When invited, I was given the impression that I would be called upon to say a few words. I didn’t plan an elaborate presentation, but simply prepared a short talk should the opportunity present itself. As you can imagine, I dressed appropriately for the occasion, with a little …