God takes drastic measures to prepare his people for the works he's prepared for them. As Christ's followers, we are his handiwork, his masterpiece, his workmanship. Our beautifully transformed lives are a demonstration of his work. We are proof that he is a masterful artist! He created us in Christ Jesus—which is to say he saved us to follow him--for the purpose of doing the good works he's prepared for us to do. Jesus saved Peter because he wanted to, but also because he'd prepared good … [Read more...]
Where to Find Courage to Continue Following Jesus
How Does Jesus Give Us the Courage to Continue Following? Jesus did not promise that following him would be a walk in the park, but he did say that he would always be with us and would show himself to us along the way. Now, I'll be honest. On some days, that sounds like a consolation prize. Like maybe we thought following Jesus would make things easy and fun, but it turns out we only get the promise that he will be with us and "show himself to us." Jesus Shows Himself to … [Read more...]
Who is Holding on to You?
Who is holding on to you? On June 9, 2009, we experienced the fishing trip that would ruin all future family fishing trips. Our boys were getting interested in fishing, but I didn't particularly care for worms, hooks, or the stench in the laundry after we'd manhandled all manner of smelly creatures. But on this June evening, Kurt was there to handle the slimy things, and he'd received a top-secret fishing tip about where the fish were biting. It was a good tip. Kurt rigged up poles for … [Read more...]
What’s that smell?
Last week I took my regular walk down to the water. I rounded the curve, and the expansive lake spread out before me. Sometimes I round that curve, and the breeze blowing up the shore carries the most unappealing smells. Often, I smell a rotting carcass, and as the smell gets stronger, I inevitably see a dead carp bloating in the sun. There’s a garbage can close to the dock, and a nauseating cocktail of odors seep from under its fitted metal lid. When the lake is low, a quarter-mile of soggy … [Read more...]
How to Flourish with a Sink Full of Dishes
Mothers day is just around the corner, and it is my pleasure to welcome to the blog one of the most insightful mothers I know. Emily Allen is the founder and visionary behind KindredMom.com, an online community and podcast dedicated to helping women find joy and purpose in motherhood. She is the mother of seven, and she is forever marked by the rescue and redemption Jesus Christ has accomplished in her life. You'll love her right away.She and her team have written a book that would make a … [Read more...]
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