Christian devotion – Page 20 – Growing Our Faith Together

As The Deer Pants for Water

In summer the hot sun scorches the earth. The brittle grass browns and breaks. Moisture-starved leaves yellow and flutter to the ground. The baked earth, cracked in every direction, cries for rain. Insects buzz in erratic dances—nothing else moves. The stifling heat rises in waves. Safe in her thicket, the deer stirs. Hot and parched,Continue reading “As The Deer Pants for Water”

Buoy Me Up (Audio Version)

Buoy Me Up

The ocean is relatively flat in this sheltered harbor. Gentle swells buoy my husband and me up and down as we tread water 50 yards from the shore. We’re more accustomed to clear, flat, chlorinated swimming pools. Swimming in the ocean is a rare treat. Quickly we notice the buoyancy of the salt water isContinue reading “Buoy Me Up”

The Eyes Have It

The Eyes Have It As I taught the simple rhythm game, dozens of pairs of dark brown eyes danced with glee. Huge smiles covered the faces of the beautiful children sitting on the floor with me in this church in the poorest section of Matamoros, Mexico. In spite of the language barriers—the children spokeContinue reading “The Eyes Have It”

At a Snail’s Pace

During a recent walk, I noticed a tiny snail, its shell no bigger than a dime. It appeared motionless, but when I knelt down for a zoomed-in photo, I could see its forward progress. Ever so slowly, it traveled, a millimeter at a time, across the sidewalk. Satisfied with my photo, I continued my walk.Continue reading “At a Snail’s Pace”

At a Snail’s Pace (Audio Version)

Estes Park

I sit at the edge of the amphitheater where the rangers give their nightly talks. Early in the morning I’m the only one here. The sun has just risen above the mountains, and I stare at the expanse of beauty all around me. Everywhere I look, the majestic Rocky Mountains raise their granite peaks skyward.Continue reading “Estes Park”

Mr. B’s Records

Let me introduce you to an acquaintance of mine, Beelzebub, Mr. B. for short. Mr. B. is a great accountant. He keeps the ledger for souls, your soul and mine. Meticulously, he records every deed, every selfless, honorable act we’ve ever done, as well as every selfish, unkind word or act anyone has ever committed.Continue reading “Mr. B’s Records”

Troubled Times

We live in troubled, broken times. I allow fear to wrap itself around me, stealing my hope and contentment. Worry takes away my trust in the Almighty Creator God. Hatred reigns supreme, shoving love into the deep recesses of my heart. My God-given peace seems shattered, scattered to every corner of my soul. But then…IContinue reading “Troubled Times”

Wordless Love

I don’t remember hearing my parents telling me, “I love you,” but I know they do. They have shown their love in countless ways. When I was growing up they worked hard to provide a comfortable home, food, and clothing. They made sure my brothers didn’t pick on me, at least not too much. EvenContinue reading “Wordless Love”