Over the years of praying for my children and myself, I developed a list of characteristics that I pray for regularly. Sometimes I recall what event prompted an addition to the list; for most, I do not. Recently, as I was praying my list for my family, which now includes grandchildren, it occurred to me … [Read more…]
One of my earliest memories is my Sunday School class at the Clearview Church of Christ in Middle Tennessee, a country church far from any towns. My teacher was sweet Miss Dora, whom everyone called an “old maid,” never guessing that in her forties she would marry a rich man and eventually be a rich … [Read more…]
As we traveled last week, I was reminded of the small courtesies that some people are attuned to while others are not. Opening doors for others is a small matter, but it can always be done. It’s awkward when it’s a door to push, so I may have to go through first, but I can … [Read more…]
Let me tell you about the church in Natal, Brazil. I spent six weeks there in 2012 and 2014. In 2016 we did not intend to return, but we went for ten days to help with a camp after the regular Let’s Start Talking team had worked there for six weeks or so. The two … [Read more…]
Purses! I both love and hate them. (I actually have love-hate situations with other items as well, such as computers, cell phones, and cars.) In a store, I am drawn to purses like a fish to a big, juicy worm. I look them over, evaluating not only their appearance but the number of side pockets … [Read more…]
We don’t have to have children or grandchildren to pray for children. We are well aware of that as we read of the shootings in Parkland, Florida, where 15 children, along with their football coach and athletic director, died. We pray for the parents and siblings and friends of these children, but it also gives … [Read more…]
Our family often teases Steve and our grandson Knox about how much alike they are. When we walk or hike, they are always the two far behind the rest. In a family conversation, they are the ones not listening. “Really? We’re leaving now? Where are we going?” is typical. When we get ready to leave … [Read more…]
Beautiful sunny Sunday morning, temp around 72 at our mid-winter get-away in the Dominican Republic. I took bread from breakfast to use in communion as Steve and I worshiped together since I hadn’t remembered to bring the travel communion sets. Then I realized I hadn’t gotten any juice. We hadn’t seen any grape juice here, … [Read more…]
Recently, I’ve heard conversations about important questions to ask and to answer. That made me think about other significant questions I’ve heard or been asked. A friend said that she didn’t get to see her uncle very often, so when they were together they made the most of the time. He would always ask, “How … [Read more…]
Have you ever thought of what people would find in your home if you died suddenly, unexpectedly? I have. They might observe that I tried to be organized but still was messy in many areas. It’s just hard to keep things neat when I have lots of different things going at once. Last week I … [Read more…]
