Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them.” Psalm 111:2 (NIV) Gray clouds clung together into one large canopy, ragged edges softening into blue. I added my chair to those facing a tall, white cross. The cross itself faced the Atlantic Ocean. Seagrass blew on a gentle…
Category: Faith and Encouragement
The Gift of a Sensitive Heart
The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out. Proverbs 20:5 NIV When I hear the word “sensitive,” my hackles rise. I can almost feel my incisors gleam as I prepare to defend my worth—again. Who decides how much emotion we are allowed? I happen to come…
It’s God’s Idea: Serving in Every Season
Serving Others is God’s idea. God’s people are repeatedly called to serve the Lord. Jesus described His own mission in terms of service. Believers are told to use their gifts to serve one another. Caring for people in need is treated as service offered to Christ. Healing Power of Serving I do not remember a…
Small Habits, Sacred Change
July 11, 2026 ~ arisereply By Jennifer E. Tirrell Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV I almost never leave the house without lipstick on. Not because I think makeup…
Trusting God with the First Step
The summit of Number 24 of the 48 “4,000 footers” in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Mt. Lincoln | 5089′ (2016 with high school bestie, Amy) While reading Acts 8:26-40 this morning, I did a double take. In my last blog post I wrote about a wrought iron key that appeared in many of my photographs…
Swing Wide the Gate
“Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.” Psalm 24:7 David faced earthly battles much like we do. Scripture calls him a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). Perhaps part of the reason is because he continually turned to the…
When God Asks, “Who Will Go?”
In my study time this morning, I noticed a verse in Isaiah and paused. “I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.” Isaiah 6:1 (Italics mine) Isaiah’s vision was more than a glimpse into heaven. It was a call to leave the comfort…
What are Some of your Sacred Spaces?
That scent, those objects, and the felt presence of our Lord meant peace to me.
Why Be Virtuous?
To Practice Spiritual Disciplines so we are Ready.Through self-control, prayer, and time in God’s Word, we aren’t found unprepared in readiness for Christ (see Matthew 25:2–5, NIV). To Practice Faithfulness in the Small Things.Daily obedience—especially in ordinary or difficult seasons—builds a storehouse of wisdom. Over time, faithfulness forms a life we can steward well. To…
Ready or Not: Hope and Joy in Easter Sacrifice
I became a “woman” on Easter Sunday. I was eleven—eleven and a half, if we’re being exact. I had some idea of what was coming. Two older sisters had gone before me, and I had read Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret like it was a handbook. Still, there are moments that no amount…