Month: April 2019

Transitions

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Dt 31:8 NLT)

In just one week, my life will change, and something in which I’ve invested countless hours during the last two years will come to an abrupt halt.

My term as Oklahoma Writers’ Federation, Inc. (OWFI) president will end around 9:00 p.m. CST, May 4, 2019. While I’m looking forward to seeing all the wonderful things that will happen under 2020 President (and my friend) Shelley Pagach, I know it means a significant transition for me. In keeping with the 2019 OWFI conference theme, I’m “turning the page” of my life. Continue reading “Transitions” →

The Hope of Easter

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead…” (1 Cor 15:20-22)

Today is Easter, the most important day of the year for Christians. Today, we celebrate the true meaning of Easter, which is found in the following truth: Jesus overcame death. He was humiliated and offered as a sacrifice on the cross. He died and rose from the grave, confirming he was the Son of God. Continue reading “The Hope of Easter” →

Holy Week: From Acclamation to Devastation

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!’” Mt 21:9

This Sunday, April 14, begins Holy Week. Applauded and acclaimed on what is now known as Palm Sunday, Jesus rode triumphantly into Jerusalem on a donkey. By Friday, he’d received a sham trial and then was beaten and ultimately crucified. Saying he had a terrible week would be a gross understatement. But because of his willing sacrifice, we have the hope of eternal life today. Continue reading “Holy Week: From Acclamation to Devastation” →

The Spiritual Discipline of Fasting

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Mt 6:17-18)

As Easter draws closer, we look for ways to deepen our spiritual life and draw closer to Jesus. Fasting is one spiritual discipline we can use to do this.

When fasting, we give up something we enjoy – food, liquids other than water, social media, TV or movies – and we use that time to study Scripture and pray.

Fasting can be done any time, not just at Easter or as part of Lent. Some people fast before making a big decision (see Acts 13:2-3; 14:23). Some people fast at the beginning of the year to reset their minds as the new year begins. Continue reading “The Spiritual Discipline of Fasting” →

2019 Rain Rain Go Away! Giveaway Blog Hop

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Congratulations to Lisa T. from New York, the winner of the $15 Amazon gift card!

Spring is a time of renewal, when everything is bright and fresh. Spring is the time when we celebrate Easter and the resurrection of Christ. We watch as trees begin to bud, perennials push their colorful heads out of the ground, and the grass turns to a soft, vibrant green. And we are reminded of the renewed life we receive through Jesus’ resurrection.

To celebrate the arrival of spring, and with it, Easter, I’m joining The Kids Did It blog and The Mommy Island blog to participate in the 4th Annual Rain Rain Go Away! Giveaway Event, which runs from April 2, 2019, to April 16, 2019. The winner of this giveaway will receive a $15 Amazon gift card. Continue reading “2019 Rain Rain Go Away! Giveaway Blog Hop” →