-
For Dad
Growing up in rural Michigan was a time of innocence and rambunctious activity. The rolling hills were perfect to run up and sled down, and the tall, stately maples were the best for climbing. From the high perch one could imagine all sorts of things – everything from pirate ships to Cinderella’s ball. The only limit was the imagination of the child. My parents provided an insulated, trusting, respectful home in which we were allowed to thrive. I could go on an on about both parents, but the focus of this post is my Dad. It is almost hard to begin to describe someone like him. I will start with…
-
Seasons and Hope
There have been times in life when I wondered and even agonized over circumstances. The dreaded, “whys” and “if onlys” rear their ugly heads. Today there are numerous uncertainties. Our world feels fractured. It is like someone threw a rock at a mirror and there are shards and spiderwebs of glass, rather than a cohesive pane. Some are suspicious, angry and even destructive. I learned a few weeks ago that the word peace in the Bible, when referring to Jesus, is not passive. It connotates completeness. The gap is filled in. The structure is sound and whole. Peace is sublimely strong. Boy, isn’t that what we need right now? Today…
-
Inhale
Standing in the silence, Feeling ripples in the night. And yet, the stars still shine brightly overhead. Distant worries seem to fade. The moon, a sliver on the horizon, Cool and remote. In the peaceful stillness, There is a Presence who is near. Available. Willing. Loving. Warm. The endurance of the One Who guards our hearts and minds Is a comfort tonight and every night. The darkness will not prevail Because the Light lives on. In this moment, so clear and strong, I bow and whisper, “Thank You, God.” – RG
-
Hopeful
Last week I wrote that my 2021 “one word” is FUL. Today I’m focusing on Hopeful. It’s a word that truly captures a big part of my soul. You see, when I wake up in the morning, I’m optimistic…thinking it will be a good day. I’m a “glass is half-full” kind of girl. Lately that intrinsic part of me has been a little challenged. How about you? Do you feel blue? Sometimes after the holidays, or during a particular episode in human history, people can feel stressed or anxious. Are you in that boat right now? Is there something, anything weighing on you today? Then, let’s determine to turn our…
-
Beginnings
It’s hard to believe the door has officially closed on another year. 2020 was a year full of challenges, that much is certain! The first day of a new year is typically a day to celebrate and perhaps a day of reflection. Many times, it’s also a line in the sand for new beginnings. Diet, exercise, starting new and positive habits are often on people’s “resolutions” list. There is so much to do! I also have my goals set this year. I’ve started another book, which will be number 7, not counting the “strays” that haven’t actually made it to the publisher yet. One thing I usually do every year…
-
Unexpected Christmas
Why would He do it? The God of the Universe coming to His creation in such an unusual way? Helpless. Dependent. Into the most humble surroundings imaginable – a stable. Can you imagine the smells, the sounds? No running water…giving birth in such a place. I grew up on a farm, so I can! Why would God choose that? God seldom does things in the manner we expect. He opens a whole new world. In this case, it is both figuratively and literally true. The glorious angel-heralds fired up the sky with their songs and their light. Shepherds, who were basically the outcasts and dregs of society were the first…
