…for the joy of the LORD is your strength. – Nehemiah 8:10b (NIV) It’s hard for us sometimes to grasp the difference between joy and happiness. We know that joy does not equal happiness but the difference can be fuzzy in our thinking.  Happiness is a feeling, but joy can also be a feeling.  Happiness … Continue reading →

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. – 2 Cor. 10:5 Now more than ever it is important to keep ourselves encouraged.  There is so much fear, anxiety, bad news and negativity out there and … Continue reading →

“The Lord is near to those who are broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 This morning my husband and I cancelled our flights to Orlando for next week. This had been a long-anticipated vacation with our best friends of 30 years and I am very sad that we can’t go. … Continue reading →

I’m still trying to get my head around an idea that seems a bit surreal. What is that idea, you ask? Well…I’ll let you in on a little secret. I’m not a young woman anymore. Gone are the days of diapers, and carpool, and sleepless nights (well not quite, but not for the same reasons). … Continue reading →

A few days ago I picked up Jen Hatmaker’s new book For the Love.  A friend had said she couldn’t put it down so I was intrigued.  A couple of chapters in and I was hooked too.  I’m not even done with it yet, but one of the chapters impacted me so much that I … Continue reading →

I feel like I have something I need to get off my chest about offense in the church body.  I share completely from my heart as a pastor and not with any agenda except to see unity and healthy relationships in the church.  Being easily offended is poison, both to the offended and to the … Continue reading →

I recently went to visit my extended family and was able to spend some time with my elderly grandparents who were recently moved into an assisted-living home.  They are none too happy about having to be there, but their failing minds and bodies have necessitated the move from their own home to a place where … Continue reading →

What is this strange feeling of happiness and sadness at the same time? It came as a complete surprise to me today. Three days ago my oldest son proposed to his girlfriend. They are giddy in love and I couldn’t be more thrilled for them. She is a perfect match for my son. She is … Continue reading →