Category: Speaking to the Soul

“Never alone, which means it is not for me to say, I believe in God, the Father Almighty (even faith is a gift), but, I belong to God the Father Almighty.”

“The little boy teaches me over and over again that everything I do is a gift given to God. And it’s precisely in the giving of our gifts to others that God transforms them before our eyes. Maybe you’re wondering what small gifts you have to give, or perhaps you’re overwhelmed with the tasks to get through each day. “Let nothing be wasted,” Jesus says to the disciples and to us. Nothing is lost on God.”

“One commentator said that at this point Nicodemus disappears from the narrative. Hardly. He is listening, finally. And when you listen you become quiet. You let what you hear seep deeply into you. Oh, Nicodemus is there, all right. And Jesus tells him the whole story. That the Son of God came to bring eternal life, a light, one which will guide those who are not evil, who know his name, who believe in him.”

“O Holy tamer of waves and wind, help us discern what you long for from us.  Get us out of the boat and out on the waves.  Help us remember to reach out to you.  Lord, save us.”

“Seeing that baby sneeze on the television program made me look for the small flashes of joy that can pop up anywhere and everywhere. I’ve noticed my dreams have begun to be happier and more thoughtful. I’ve found moments of pleasure and enjoyment, however brief, have come more frequently. I think I’ve found a kind of mustard seed all my own that grows like faith.”

“Prayer is an Essential Worker. Study of Scripture is our sure shield and buckler. I am finding both necessary, lest my fear overwhelm my kindness.”

“The miracle of this story is the generous heart. The generous heart that encourages and empowers the generosity of others. That’s the miracle. And it’s a miracle that can transform our own situation from one of want to one of agency. As those disciples helped encourage the crowd to share what they had, suddenly there was more than enough. In taking action rather than allowing the uncertainty to rule their perspective, they—and we—learn the power of bold, generous action to change lives.”

“It’s August of 2020 and to think that we should not be anxious about anything is almost laughable. Whether we’re working on the front lines of the pandemic, fearful for our health and the health of our family, making decisions for schooling and work, examining our own privilege, worried about the upcoming election and our inability to thoughtfully listen to each other, or all the other day-to-day worries of work and relationships, there is plenty for everyone to be anxious about.”

“He questions God, and asks for signs, and proof that it is indeed God and not some troublesome spirit. Discernment is the correct choice. So that when God orders him again, Gideon is ready.”