In Genesis we are introduced to Sarah, who becomes the mother of all Israel. With her begins God's promise that someday Abraham's descendants will outnumber the stars in the sky. God's promise to Abraham can't work without a womb. And the woman whose womb He has been chosen is barren. Sarah is beyond middle age when the promise is first spoken, and twenty-five years later when the promise ... View Post
When Jesus Came to Christmas
We are gathered in the quiet early morning amidst twinkles and tinsel. My boys are running in elated circles as I drink my coffee with half-opened eyes and gift tape still stuck to my pajamas from late-night wrapping. What would Christmas morning be like without coffee? I wonder. And then I take another sip. Because clearly that’s the question of a woman who hasn’t had enough caffeine. The boys ... View Post
That Time I Stalked Lisa Harper…
I shouldn't brag about this, but I have some experience as a stalker. As a teenager my friends and I would do "drive-bys" together: driving past the places where our crushes were, with the hopes of catching a glimpse. I was never ashamed. Until once we were caught - by MY crush. It was embarrassing. But I got over it. (He was THAT cute!) That tradition died in high school. Until this past weekend. ... View Post
Why We Feel So Rejected
Have you ever wondered why you feel so rejected? Why your heart hurts even over the small things you wish you could shrug off? Yeah, me too. But I think I've found the answer. Let me share it with you. Last week I sent an email to my subscribers asking them what their biggest challenge is at this point in their lives. I asked so I can continue to write content that ministers to my readers. The ... View Post
Bring Your Light to the Fight
My seven-year-old is a natural athlete. Whatever he attempts, he does well. And Avry wanted to learn to surf like the kids on YouTube. My husband is a radical cheerleader when it comes to his children, and so he bought a thick, short surfboard. Avry carried the board down to the surf, full of excitement, certain he'd look like those young surfers on YouTube in just a matter of moments. He strutted ... View Post
Be the First
Do you sometimes feel invisible? Have you stood in the hallway of church, work or a social event and felt your heart harden as women walk right past? Have you seen a friend and suddenly you feel like you're both strangers? Have you ever felt like if it weren't you reaching out, you'd never be invited to anything? Have you wondered why you're like teflon for friendships? I have thought and felt ... View Post
The Gift of Faith (How to Receive It)
After Noah’s injury as an infant, seizures ravaged his body for over a year. On his worst day he had 32; I remember not only because it was the highest number we’d seen but because the day before had been nearly perfect as we let him splash in the kiddie pool for the first time. After nearly a dozen medications failed him, desperation pushed us into action, and we started Noah on the Ketogenic ... View Post
The Summer of Sadness: A Hope for the Brokenhearted
Sometimes, in the midst of what should be holiday joy, we feel bound up by sadness. And scrolling through social media to see giant red, white, and blue hair bows; coordinating family portraits; and smiles bright like fireworks can make us feel as though our toes are sifting through ashes instead of beaches. If that is you, friend, I have been there. As I’m immersed in writing my memoir about ... View Post