Eyes downcast, Jamé exhales slowly. Pain flickers across her countenance. It's ten in the morning, and she's been laboring steadily for three hours. Never is a woman more vulnerable-- or more powerful -- than she is during childbirth. Sam kisses her forehead, laces his fingers through hers, murmurs encouragement. Never does a man feel more helpless than when his beloved gives birth -- and never is he more helpful, simply by being at her side. It's the being, not the doing. The power of presence. This is his gift to her. The two are becoming three, another holy family Continue Reading
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How Every Parent Feels Like Mary or Joseph
Are you stopping to breathe this Christmas season? Taking a moment to snuggle with your child and gaze at the glow and sparkle of the tree? I hope so. Christmas is about wonder, and every mom or dad who's held newborn son or daughter, marveling at tiny features, knows what wonder is. My newest grandson, Zaccai, was born December 17th. I'm experiencing a fresh wave of wonder myself. Every child is a stunning miracle, a priceless gift. Every baby is a blessing. At the same time, every birth puts the fear of God in us. How shall I raise this little one? What if I get this whole Continue Reading
How Thanksgiving Benefits Your Brain
Heading into the holidays can seem like a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your life circumstances. Some of us are looking forward to spending time around the Thanksgiving table, counting our blessings and carving the turkey. We can't wait to put away the pumpkins and pull out the awesome bling of Christmas. Others of us have experienced a loss this year. Perhaps a loved one passed, or you got laid off, or your marriage died. Perhaps your health is suffering, or a long-hoped for dream failed to materialize. Life is full of curve balls. It's also full of blessings. We Continue Reading
4 Helpful Ways to Approach Your Time in the Bible
I was a pretty dramatic seventh-grader. My faith was real to me, and I was ready to take on the world for Jesus. I read books like Tortured for Christ and God's Smuggler and pondered, What would it be like to be thrown in prison and have my Bible taken away? Thankfully, I've been free to read the Word of God pretty much every day for decades. Bible reading is a necessity for spiritual health, so I'm not trying to impress you ... just inspire you So how do we approach this important spiritual discipline? There's no "correct" way to read the Bible, but allow me to share a few Continue Reading