Category: Character
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It’s Okay to Rant a Little
If you’ve followed my writing on social media or my blog, you know that I strive to be positive and uplifting. With so much pain in our world, I want to share the hope found in Jesus. Sometimes, though, life isn’t pleasant. When we only show the positive, filtered side, it becomes inauthentic. Others wonder…
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Vulnerability and Me
Vulnerability is tough, especially in our social media age. Rarely do we see a post where a person’s hair is disheveled and their make up is not done. No, we make sure the camera is at the right angle. We apply filters and crop our pictures just so. People tend to show their best sides…
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Beware of the Green-eyed Monster!
The creature is hard to see, slithering unaware and whispering deceptions. Those who are susceptible listen to its riveting voice and are mesmerized by its words. Much like the original serpent who lured Eve into doubting the Creator’s instructions, it cleverly plants seeds of discontent. They grow into fields of resentment with sharp burs that…
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Easter Every Day
“Happy Birthday, Easter!” my two-year-old grandson proudly exclaimed. He had tuned in to the excitement of the day without having a clue what it was about. He repeated it with assurance, happy to be a part of the party. My grandson got it right. We celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus every year. He doesn’t yet…
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Remember Your Identity
It’s time for me to come out. I am a woman, and I am a pastor. I lead a church, and I teach men and women alike. I love Jesus with all my heart, and I have no doubt that He has called me. But, not everyone agrees. Not everyone understands. They interpret certain passages…
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The Trust that Gets God’s Attention
His name was Jonathan. We were in the same first grade class. One day I made him angry by winning a race in PE, dethroning him as the fastest runner in first grade. Jonathan threatened to beat me up after school. Every day as soon as the dismissal bell rang, I shot out of the…
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A Lesson from Bike Riding
My husband and I love bike riding together. We aren’t experienced bicyclists, but it is fun to enjoy the great outdoors. On Memorial Day, we loaded up our bikes and rode on a path lined with orchards, blackberry vines, and wildflowers. The air was fresh with a hint of rain that waited until we were…
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The Beauty of Diversity
For the last few weeks, I have been listening to a fabulous sermon series on diversity. It has expressed what I have experienced throughout my lifetime. Yes, diversity is important, but it is deeper than making sure that we are politically and socially correct. This goes beyond hiring different ethnicities and genders to ensure there…
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When God’s people obey, God shows up in a big way.
Joshua led the Israelite army to march around the formidable city of Jericho. The Lord had instructed him to place seven priests and the Ark of the Covenant at the front of the line. Nobody was to make a sound for six days. On the seventh day, seven priests were to blow the trumpets. Only…
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(Re)acquaint yourself with God’s grace
Resurrection Sunday is here! We put to rest the Lenten season of preparation and focus on the culmination of God’s plan to redeem humanity. The long-awaited and hoped for deliverance, the final blow in the battle against sin, they have been ushered in by the New Covenant of grace and faith in the risen Jesus.…