“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh 1:9)
It’s been many years since I set New Year’s resolutions. Because I got off track by the end of January, setting resolutions made me feel like a failure. I wanted to change and grow, but I didn’t know how. Continue reading “Bold: My Word of the Year (Again)”
“Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you.” (3 Jn 1:5)
Recently, an older gentleman with a small dog about the size of Lilly approached me when we were leaving the park after a walk. I needed to get to work and stopping for him was a minor inconvenience. But something about this man and his dog made me pause, and I waited for them to reach us. Continue reading “Strangers Among Us”
“But show me unfailing kindness like the Lord’s kindness as long as I live…” (1 Sa 20:14)
After my fortieth birthday last year, I learned about something called 40 days to 40 in which you pick a theme and do one thing each day to fit that theme for the forty days leading up to your birthday. Since I missed out on doing it last year, I decided to do it this year, even though it’s not a milestone year. Every birthday is one to be celebrated, and each day is one for which to be thankful. This year, I’m doing 41 acts of kindness to 41. I’ll complete forty-one acts of kindness – at least one per day. I started the challenge on July 3. Continue reading “41 Days to 41”
“Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are now far from my righteousness. I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed…” (Is 46:12-13)
We walked along the side of the road, Lilly trotting on the raised curb beside me. One of my many podcasts droned in my ears as I took advantage of the nice weather to get outside but still learn something new about the craft of writing. I wrapped Lilly’s leash around my hand and wrist to ensure that she couldn’t suddenly break free and take off for parts unknown. Continue reading “Is Stubbornness Ever a Virtue?”
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Heb 13:16)
As an introvert, I have a difficult time stepping outside of my comfort zone to meet new people, even in situations that are designed for that purpose. Back when I had a day job and attended networking meetings on a regular basis, I would make my exit as quickly as possible when we were told to mingle, totally defeating the purpose of being there. Continue reading “Serving Outside My Comfort Zone”