Tag: Jesus Christ

You Can’t Always Get What You Want

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Do everything without grumbling or arguing. (Phil. 2:14)

I scurried into my office and pushed the door shut behind me. In my hurry, I didn’t make sure it caught. There was a slight gap between the door and the frame—just wide enough for a curious Yorkie to stick her nose through. As I connected to the Zoom meeting, I heard snuffling, and the door swung open as Lilly ambled in.

She walked in a circle, ran to the door, and skidded to a stopped. She turned and stared at me, trying to communicate telepathically. I tried to focus on the discussion on the screen, but Lilly’s pacing distracted me. Suddenly, I realized the problem—she had gotten in, but the door wasn’t open wide enough for her to get out.

I opened the door, and she scampered out without another glance. She had gotten what she wanted—to be in the same room with me—but once she got it, she decided she would rather be in the room she had just vacated. Continue reading “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” →

The Hope of the Resurrection

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (1 Pt 1:3)

Christmas and Easter are both big celebrations for Christians. Even those who don’t believe celebrate these holidays, too, but in much different ways than we do.

As a child, I didn’t understand the importance of Easter. The church I grew up in was more focused on what you wore than on passion plays or sunrise services. I remember scrambling to arrive at church early so we could find a seat and wearing a new dress (I loved to dress up). I couldn’t figure out where all the people came from. I knew everyone at church, or so I thought. Continue reading “The Hope of the Resurrection” →

Silent Night, Holy Night

Posted on by Staci Mauney

This blog post was originally published on December 22, 2012.

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them…” (Luke 2:6-7)

Two thousand years ago, Jesus came to earth in the most unobtrusive, unexpected of ways…as a baby. Our Savior chose to come quietly to be born of humble parents – one a young virgin, the other, a carpenter – even though he could have come with great fanfare to sit high upon an earthly throne, surrounded by riches. Continue reading “Silent Night, Holy Night” →

Finding the Pandemic Reset Button

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” Rom 14:12

Early in the pandemic, I threw myself into work and other projects to stay busy, and now I’m feeling the fatigue. Every day feels like Groundhog Day.

I’ve let some things slip. Things like my Bible study time and eating habits. Has this happened to you? No? Is it just me? Continue reading “Finding the Pandemic Reset Button” →

Stretching into the Future

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“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)

When I look back over the last few years of my life, I see how far God has asked me to move out of my comfort zone. I started my own business, moved to a new city, joined a new church, and led a regional writing organization. But just when I think I’ve stretched as far as I can go, God asks me to do even more. Continue reading “Stretching into the Future” →