Growing up, I had a complicated relationship with worship at church. I was raised in a setting where hands were held high in praise, where we swayed with our eyes closed, and where outwardly expressions of worship were a direct indication of your personal relationship with God. My naturally critical spirit turned toward an unhealthy … Continue reading Dismantling Cynicism for Lent
Tag: preparation
Detoxing, Refocusing, and Entering Into Advent
I'm sitting in my living room right now, laptop perched halfway on one knee, halfway on the arm of our old and worn-out chair. The fire is on, snow is covering the branches of the trees outside though the sun has melted it from the sidewalks and streets. My girls are across the street watching … Continue reading Detoxing, Refocusing, and Entering Into Advent
The Work and Cultivation of Spring
After walking around our disheveled yard, I'm also reminded that a seed isn't planted and then suddenly grows on its own. Gardening takes work and cultivation. Dead growth needs to be cleared, the compost needs to be turned, the debris of winter raked and mulched.
Ready
We woke up to the heat going on today. The high is going to be something in the mid-50's, which seems too cold for September 12. This is just a snap - next week will be pleasant again. I love autumn and the coziness of winter, but am not quite ready to put away the … Continue reading Ready
Preparation
My friend, Alexandra Kuykendall is doing a series on Advent reflections. I am honored to offer some thoughts on today's reading: At our house, we are preparing for Christmas. The outside lights are up (though not yet plugged in); tinsel and dollar-store ornaments decorate our two baby blue spruce in front. Our tree this year … Continue reading Preparation
