On International Women’s Day
This post celebrates women around the world, acknowledging their joy and suffering, leadership and oppression. The author shares a personal experience at St. John the Divine’s in New York City, encountering the controversial Christa sculpture and feeling profoundly understood by God. The author reflects on the strength and power of women, expressing a prayer for their value, respect, and love on International Women's Day.
The Road Home
The song "I Will Lead You Home" expresses the longing for a place to call home after years of wandering. It conveys the hope of finding the way back through the calling of a distant voice and the love in one's heart. The lyrics evoke a sense of belonging and the journey towards finding home.
The Rocky Road
In life, we often seek easy paths, avoiding obstacles. However, unexpected challenges arise, testing our faith and resilience. Embracing these "rocks" as opportunities to grow spiritually, we can navigate difficult times with strength and belief in a higher power. Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D., urges us to face adversity and find valuable lessons within.
Golden Hour: A Time to Pause in Awe
When we stand still to catch the beauty of the world during Golden Hour...
Already There
The post expresses a love for road trips and compares them with life's journeys. It discusses anxiety related to new paths and emphasizes the need to embrace change. The author finds solace in faith and appreciates the power of positive thinking. Scriptures and a personal prayer are shared, concluding with a mention of the upcoming Mental Health Television Network launch.
Everything has a Time
The passage from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 beautifully portrays life's diverse phases, depicting moments of birth and death, planting and uprooting, weeping and laughing, love and hate. It highlights the ever-changing nature of life and the world. This timeless wisdom continues to resonate with individuals across cultures and generations.
Psalm 34
Sandy D. finds solace in music, alongside prayer and scripture, to trust God in all circumstances. She shares "Psalm 34" and "Levanto mis Manos" as sources of upliftment and a reminder to praise God, and recommends "He’s Been Faithful" for its expression of God’s faithfulness. She encourages praise during Lent.
The Road to a New Job
Carmen Matias found herself adrift after resigning from her job as per city protocol. Despite two years of worry and uncertainty, she took a leap of faith, reaching out to Michael Bloomberg and securing a job at Bloomberg News. This unexpected turn of events led her to a fulfilling role and a valuable connection.
Skipping from Ashes to Lilies
The poem by Susan Ceely Philips expresses a journey from darkness to light, conveying a profound sense of faith and trust in a higher power. The narrative evolves from questioning and uncertainty to a serene assurance and dependence on divine guidance, ultimately embracing the idea of safety and security in the present moment.
A Little Less Anger
The poem and prayer express a longing for less anger, fear, and sadness, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding. It draws on religious texts and teachings to convey the significance of seeking wisdom, restraint in speech, and peaceful reconciliation. It encourages deep prayer and silent contemplation for spiritual enlightenment and understanding.
The Joy of Getting Lost
Sometimes, sticking to familiar routes may limit discoveries. Embracing unexplored paths can lead to new experiences, friendships, and beauty. Getting lost can unveil unexpected opportunities. Life is an adventure, not a routine. Embrace the unknown; it may hold wondrous surprises. Rev. J. Elise Brown, Ph.D.
A Lenten Meditation on What the Child Said Without Words
The poem emphasizes the spiritual significance of the Eucharist through a child's natural reverence and gratitude for food. It portrays the child's genuine communion with the sacred ritual, highlighting the profound simplicity and unfeigned thankfulness in partaking of the holy meal. The child's actions symbolize a heartfelt connection to divine nourishment and love.
Won't Back Down
Put on the full armor of God to stand firm in the face of evil (Ephesians 6:13). May it protect and empower you in challenging times. - Marcie Doll
SONG OF ASSURANCE ALONG A PATH
The post contains Psalm 23, in which David praises the Lord as his shepherd and protector. Despite facing challenges, he trusts in God's guidance and provision. The post also includes a link to a song, "HIS EYE IS ON THE SPARROW" by Victory Boyd, and concludes with "A Blessed Lenten Season" and the sender's name, Sandy D.
"The Last Repair Shop"
Every February for the past decade, I make a point to watch Academy Award-nominated Live Action, Documentary, and Animated shorts. Though I may miss some Best Film nominees, these shorts always leave a lasting impact. "The Last Repair Shop," a documentary about a music instrument repair shop, profoundly moved me, showcasing the transformative power of music. Watch it on Hulu, Disney+, or YouTube. If you're interested in the Oscar Shorts, visit https://shorts.tv/theoscarshorts/ and experience the joy of film.
Have you Ever put God on Hold?
After a period of self-reliance, a woman surrendered to God, seeking guidance and support. She asked for her children's independence, longevity beyond family history, and an advanced degree. Embracing faith, she experienced unexpected opportunities, including travel and a surprising career shift to seminary, finding strength and community with God's help.
As You Wander and Roam
The journey of each person is unique, with its own challenges and triumphs. Through our own experiences, we gain insight into others' struggles, finding ways to support and comfort those in need. Acts of kindness and love, even in times of trial, bring light and joy, reflecting back as a gift for our future journeys.
When the Road Leads into the Wilderness
The post reflects a personal journey through faith, wrestling with questions, and finding solace in an Evolving Faith community and new perspectives. It remarks on the challenges faced within a church, the transformative impact of an alternative community, and the deepened understanding of faith through loss and exploration. This leads to hope and a renewed outlook on faith.
Lent is For Lovers
So many of us see Lent as a bit of a downer: penance, sin, winter’s woes. However, this year isn’t the starting date, Valentine’s Day, a wonderful reminder of what it could be: a time of loving awe and grace? Let’s examine that together.
How Many Roads Tell your Story?
Tena Bos reflects on the 13 places she has called home, each holding unique stories. She encourages focusing on the positive moments in life and shares an impactful encounter in the Omani desert. Lost and aided by strangers, they bonded through gestures and smiles, highlighting the universal language of kindness.