Photo by V. Miller (Unsplash) A small bud rested at the end of a thin branch. It had been perched there since I placed the young pear tree in its pot. Months passed and nothing changed, no sign of growth or life - just that single bud. I had exhausted my gardening skills, carefully protecting …
Continue reading When Frustration and Defeat are God’s Opportunity
Photo by E. Unuabona I shared this post in June 2020. At that time, we were being introduced to the ravages of the COVID pandemic. However, we were also seeing the emergence of an old contagion – hate.In honor of Juneteenth and all the lives that fought against the virus of hatred, I offer this …
Photo by V. Mathisen (Unsplash) Our world is growing increasingly more troubling and honestly, it feels dangerous. When I watch the evening news, my mind is bombarded with snapshots that confirm this reality, Another mass shooting, weather disaster, or life lost to the pandemic. Another victim of mental illness ravaging innocent lives in a misguided …
Continue reading Using A God-Shaped Filter to Shift Our Perspective
All photos by A. McCormick (Except as noted) Two years ago, a mamma finch tucked a nest in the center of our front door wreath. Five speckled blue eggs rested in the straw. Out of a sense of being a responsible finch-nest host, I barricaded the walkway so the little ones would not be disturbed. …
Photo by A. Malanin (Unsplash) Mother’s Day was yesterday. It is a holiday I’ve learned to make peace with. My mother passed when I was 29, a prolonged battle with lung cancer, and my dreams of being a mom have been left unfulfilled. The day, and the emotions it evokes, caused me to question my …
Photo by Unsplash Last Sunday was Easter. We woke early, dressed, grabbed a smoothie, and made our way to the 9:00 AM service. The sanctuary was full, the youngest of the attendees squirming in their seats excited about the party that followed the service. The message reminded me that Friday’s crucifixion was only a prelude …
BeLoved 