Under snow-frosted trees, with visible breath I ask it. Perhaps you’ve asked it too. Rinsing the dish I’ve rinsed a thousand times before, I wonder. Maybe you’ve wondered too. Do I matter? Am I seen? There was once a peasant girl bearing the most common of names, going about her ordinary day—who was seen. Noticed. … Continue reading Another Ordinary, Holy Day
Christmas
The Line Between
We know the story, don't we? An innocent peasant girl, a heroic fiance, and angel visitations. Peculiar starlight. We hold our children close, paging through brightly colored storybooks, reminding them of the miracle of the baby in the manger. “Silent night, holy night”, we sing, clutching candles in the dark. Its a beautiful story. A … Continue reading The Line Between
A Distant Country
I packed away the Christmas decorations this week. We once had a larger tree in our larger house, circled by gifts for our larger family. Now we have a simple tabletop tree by the window. Ben was excited when we brought it in from the garage. “Twee!” he crowed at the sight. “Ho Ho!” For … Continue reading A Distant Country
We Didn’t Expect You to Come This Way
We didn't expect you to come this way. You were supposed to rescue us from our enemies, but instead you rescued us from ourselves. We expected retribution, but instead you brought healing. We thought you would bring judgment’s sword, but instead you brought words of kindness. Humility. Love. You washed our filthy feet. We didn't … Continue reading We Didn’t Expect You to Come This Way
While Mortals Sleep
The heavens tore open that night as a peasant girl labored in darkness. Music flooded the space between heaven and earth. A flaming, blazing ball of gas appeared from nowhere, pulsing, burning overhead, while magi watched, puzzled, in a distant country. Awestruck shepherds ran to find their Creator suckling, needy. And we, the citizens of … Continue reading While Mortals Sleep
A Real Christmas
It's the most wonderful time of the yearWith the kids jingle bellingAnd everyone telling you be of good cheerIt's the most wonderful time of the year What do you think of when you hear the word “Christmas”? The nativity story, angels, and a stable? A decorated tree, presents and family? Christmas memories and expectations can … Continue reading A Real Christmas
When the Soul Feels its Worth
Under snow-frosted trees, with visible breath I ask it. Perhaps you’ve asked it too. Rinsing the dish I’ve rinsed a thousand times before, I wonder. Maybe you’ve wondered too. Do I matter? Am I seen? A peasant girl bearing the most common of names, going about her most ordinary of days - she was seen. … Continue reading When the Soul Feels its Worth
A View of the Lake 