Category: Holidays

2022’s Word for the Year: The Big Question Mark

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” (Ps. 130:5)

Happy New Year!

Do you create New Year’s resolutions, or do you select a word for the year? Or some combination of both? Usually by this time each year, I have my word selected. But I’m starting 2022 without one. I’ve prayed, made lists of potential words, and even taken online quizzes. (Yes, I was starting to feel desperate, and even though I didn’t find my word, I did gain some valuable insight from the way I answered the questions on the quizzes.)

God isn’t completely silent, but he’s definitely not saying anything about what my word should be. Continue reading “2022’s Word for the Year: The Big Question Mark” →

When Strivings Cease

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Ps. 46:10)

Even though I would like for life to slow down at Christmastime, it rarely does. In fact, it usually speeds up. With plays and parties, baking and decorating, Bible studies and special church services, it seems there’s more to do than at any other time of the year.

I don’t know how your Christmas season has been, but my plans for a quiet month of rest and reflection disappeared quickly as I spent long days, nights, and weekends working; dealing with a COVID scare (thankfully, I tested negative, but it canceled several of my activities); and walking beside friends who are going through some really hard things. Continue reading “When Strivings Cease” →

Be the Light

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Can you believe it’s less than two weeks till Christmas? Before we know it, the clock will strike midnight, and 2022 will be upon us. Are you ready?

One of my favorite things to do at Christmastime is drive around and look at the lights. From city parks to downtown Oklahoma City to local neighborhoods, I like to explore and see them all. Continue reading “Be the Light” →

Longing for Peace

Posted on by Staci Mauney

This post was originally published on December 23, 2019.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Is 9:6)

Peace is elusive. With the invention of the smartphone, we are constantly connected and bombarded by dings, rings, and chimes. Instead of finding activities to engage our minds, we pull out our phones when we’re bored and pass the time on mindless games or scrolling through social media. We have email on our phones, so even when we’re away from the office, we’re still available and always on call. “Downtime” isn’t a word that’s even in our vocabulary anymore. Continue reading “Longing for Peace” →

Being Grateful During Hard Times

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Col. 3:15)

During the month of November, our thoughts turn to thankfulness more than at any other time of the year. Even so, when we’re dealing with something difficult, it can be hard to be grateful.

Does anyone ever feel gratitude for difficult circumstances? Perhaps someone who is unusually optimistic does. I believe I’m an optimistic person, but—full disclosure here—gratitude is not my first response when things are tough. Continue reading “Being Grateful During Hard Times” →