Turning the Heart
In 1 Kings 8:58, we read this prayer: “May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in obedience to him and keep the commands, decrees and laws he gave our ancestors.” When I pray for my children, I pray God turns their hearts to Him always, that He prompts and enables obedience, and that they […]
A Family Blessing
This morning I read this blessing that I pray over my family from Psalm 115:14-15: May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children.May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. What a simple but powerful blessing!
A Little Something
When I travel, I love to carry a little something from home to make a strange environment feel cozy. My favorite little something is a scent. I love spraying pillows and the air with a scent we use at home like lavender or citrus. My aunt just gave me the sweetest gift: a miniature jeweled […]
Still Living Seated
I just finished speaking to the US Campus Ministry staff of Cru on being seated with Christ. And I loved it! I didn’t worry about anything. It’s because I’m seated, and nothing else matters.
Acting As If It Were True
I hear a speaker quote Dallas Willard: “We believe something when we act as if it were true.” Oh, to truly live, act, feel, know: this is belief!
Remembering Philippians 2
Whenever I am in a new place and unsure of myself, I remember Philippians 2. I can take my eyes off myself and “take on the nature of a servant.” I love Philippians 2 because it reminds me to consider the interests of others, to fight for their well-being, and to seek to bless people […]
“Every delay is God’s way.”
Our family uses two little mottos to keep our spirits cheerful in the midst of disappointment. First, “Every rejection is God’s protection.” Second: “Every delay is God’s way.” Both statements reflect deeply theological positions on God’s love and sovereignty. So when we arrive to the airport and our airline announces a two hour delay, we […]
Gardening Joy
Let me list 5 little joys today: The lemon seed is growing into a mighty tree. My hands smell like cilantro and basil from harvesting in the garden. We’ll top our Thai Carrot Soup dinner with fresh herbs. My gardenia is staying green and not dropping her buds. We discovered that we were under-watering her! […]
Backseat
My oldest daughter passed her Pennsylvania driving test today, and now that we’ve officially added her to our insurance, she’s already left for the first time on her own to pick up something at Home Depot or Lowes of all places. Before this, she drove with her sister in the passenger seat as I sat […]
The Best Summer Pasta Salad
I make this cold pasta salad, and the family devours it. My children and their friends eat it so quickly that I’m amazed I don’t even have one little piece of pasta left over. Here’s how: Cook a pound of pasta. (I like the organic four-color radiatore that Target sells.) Drain and rinse in cold […]