Present, by Becky Ankowiak “I’m not going to leave you bereft. I am coming to you.” John 14:18 NTE How can the sky still be so blue? In September, my younger sister—a talented musician and teacher—sank to the gym floor without warning. In spite of heroic efforts and almost immediate medical attention, she didn’t respond. … Continue reading
Waiting by Melissa Carey Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14 It’s hard to believe that this Sunday is the beginning of Advent! The word Advent derives from the Latin (also French and Spanish) verb venir, which means “to come.” Advent is … Continue reading
Always, by Catherine Hutton [Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:7 NIV I’m in need of a little reminder of the ‘always’ nature of God who is Love. Spiritually, these times feel pretty inter-testamental. I miss hands-on prayer and sweaty rooms packed with worshippers and the feeling of unity in … Continue reading
Fullness, by Lori Altebaumer “… that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17-19 NKJV The … Continue reading
Joy by Kathy Howard But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13, NIV She possessed a deep and abiding joy in Christ. Despite her family’s rejection. Despite her husband’s mistreatment. This unique joy – unstoppable even in the face of persecution … Continue reading