Overwhelmed by Him More Than By Troubles
Today I find a quote by the worship leader Matt Redman who says, “The heart of God loves a persevering worshipper who, though overwhelmed by many troubles, is overwhelmed even more by the beauty of God.” May we find ourselves overwhelmed by the beauty of God.
Pumpkin Patch Hello
In Any Condition
It’s been so humid, with a day of rain, so I know what’s coming: mushrooms! I think whimsical thoughts of fairy seats, gnomes, and the mysteries of the forest floor. I love the overnight secret work of these mushrooms. And I love how we can still find something wonderful in any condition.
Teaching on Togetherness
I woke up distressed about the news in Charlottesville as I have walked those grounds for four years as a undergraduate. I think about what it means to gather together and love people, in the power of the Holy Spirit, and teach others how to live without superiority and hate in their hearts. Is there […]
When Overwhelmed, Abide First
So many times, I want to move into action in my own efforts to solve problems, to have impact, and to make a difference. But today I remember John 15:5 where Jesus says to abide with Him. He says, “apart from me you can do nothing.” Nothing! Apart from God, we can do nothing. If […]
Wonders in the Forest
Today, in the forest along the road behind my house, deer ate from the bushes. I circled around twice to see two spotted fawns eating as well. What other wonders hide in the forest?
Entering the Empty Classroom
Each new semester, I wonder if this time, I’ll feel exhausted and bored and burnt out when I arrive to sign my new teaching contract in the English department. I wonder if this is the year I’ll experience drudgery. I wonder if I’ll resent the work–the lessons plans and grading and office hours. Those feelings […]
Strange, Unknown Harvest
We returned from our summer travels to find an enormous plant overtaking the corner of the garden. Is it a pumpkin plant? A zucchini? Squash? Watermelon? Since its roots originate from the depths of our dark, rich, nutritious compost bin––where we discarded pumpkin seeds––we think it’s a pumpkin. We consulted a horticulturalist who believes it’s […]
A Thirst for God
I think about Psalm 42 and what it means to thirst for God, the Living God (verse 2). It’s so curious to note the cause of thirst and the soul-dehydrating experiences of the psalmist. He recounts his tears, his longing for a past to which he cannot return, and his disturbed and downcast soul. He’s […]
Always a Moment
I’ve loved blogging daily for since March 2010 because it provides a moment, a call for reflection and worship. I write each day to answer the two questions that have come to govern my whole life: How can I worship God here because of what I see that reflects Him? and What I am learning? These […]