There was a time in my life when I would have confidently claimed that Jesus Christ was the one thing I desired more than anything else while being blinded to a host of other competing affections at work in my life. Sadly and subtly, we can become more consumed with the good gifts God has … More The One Thing that’s Essential

In the movie City Slickers, there is a scene where a tough old cowboy, Curly (played by the late Jack Palance), espouses his life philosophy to Mitch (Billy Crystal). Curly: Do you know what the secret to life is? This. (Holds up one finger) Mitch: Your finger? Curly: One thing. Just one thing. You stick … More You Will Become What You Trust In

I used to love to eat out or order take-out for a night off from cooking. Not anymore. After years of health problems, I finally learned that certain foods were causing havoc on my body. And while I am thankful to be feeling better, I find no pleasure in telling someone who kindly invites us … More 4 Ways Being Gluten-Free Points me to the Gospel

Dear Ben, Brooks, and Eli, I’ve been thinking about how much harder it is to be a boy today than it once was. Boys were meant to climb trees, dig in the dirt, collect bugs, and conquer unexplored places in the back lot, but today’s parent often feels the pressure to schedule nearly every waking … More A Letter to my Grandsons, Part 2

Dear Ben, Brooks, and Eli, I am so thankful that God gave me three grandsons to love, each of you a gift to our family.  Already I see your boyish ways mingling with unique personalities, revealing who God made you to be. Although your ages span over 7 years, I pray that you will be close … More A Letter to My Grandsons, Part 1

Dear Riley, Hannah, Noelle, and Haley, Do you remember when we went to see the play Beauty and the Beast and the important lesson that Belle learned? As you know, the beast was ugly and mean until he learned how to love others more than he loved himself. And what happened when he did? Instead … More A Letter to My Granddaughters; Part 2

Dear Riley, Hannah, Noelle, and Haley, I thank God that He has blessed me with four granddaughters who have already brought such joy into my life!  I love watching  you twirl in pretty dresses, giggle, sing, and play with imagination as you begin to discover the world around you. But, more than anything, I pray that … More A Letter to My Granddaughters; Part 1

“I wish you made more money so we could go on a nice vacation.” “Why do you have to work so much? I need you to help me more at home!”  “I can’t wait to have children and be a mom.” “These kids are driving me crazy! I’m so tired of all the clutter and … More Part 2: Getting Rid of Grumbling

“I’m so done with this winter!” “Why can’t we get ahead of these bills?” “If only I had a husband.”  If only I had a husband like….” “Are we going to be stuck in this small house forever?” “I’m so tired of …..” Grumbling is so common and natural that we often fail to recognize … More Part 1: Getting Rid of Grumbling

Lately I have been thinking about the different ways God answers prayer. Sometimes, He seems to say no because He has something even better. Other times He delays the answer we long for while working deeply in us during the waiting period. I think of Hannah, for example, in 1 Samuel 1, who was deeply … More For This Child I Prayed