Remember the last time you received a gift-wrapped package from someone? Picture the box, wrapped in iridescent white paper, and tied with a beautiful bow. When you were handed this gift, what did you do? Did you open it immediately, eager to see what was inside? Did you want to personally thank the one whoContinue reading “The Unopened Gift”
Category Archives: short devotional
The Potter
Have you ever watched the potter at work? He centers a lump of clay on the wheel, creates a small indention in the middle, then pours water over the clay. As the wheel spins, his hands deftly shape the clay until he has created his pot in the shape he wants. In scripture God isContinue reading “The Potter”
A Child’s First Walk
Do you remember watching a baby learn to walk? First, she holds Mom’s hand tightly, walking with the reassurance of that grip. Soon she lets go, taking tentative steps on her chubby legs. Back and forth she walks, from Mom to Dad and back to Mom. She has complete confidence; her parents will protect her. Continue reading “A Child’s First Walk”
A Blanket of White
A Blanket of Snow It’s snowing! I love to watch the snow fall from the heavens, especially the way it falls today. There is no wind, so the flakes drift lazily downward. The flakes are big and fat, my favorite. Standing by my dining room patio window, I watch them descend in the light ofContinue reading “A Blanket of White”
New Year’s Resolutions
New Year’s Resolutions Many of us make New Year’s resolutions every year. We resolve to lose weight, eat healthier, exercise more, keep our house and office clean, and be kinder to family and friends. People make all different types of resolutions, intending to keep them. How often do you keep your resolutions? How often doContinue reading “New Year’s Resolutions”
His Light Shines
II Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. I am so thankful, Lord, that you have sent this light to us. With the birth ofContinue reading “His Light Shines”
Hear the Crying
Hear the Crying Imagine if you will, Christmas day more than 2000 years ago in the town of Bethlehem. Jesus is born. Do you feel the crisp morning air? Do you smell the animals and the hay? Listen. Do you hear the newborn crying? Can you see Mary, seated on the floor of the stable,Continue reading “Hear the Crying”
Follow Me
“It is into this deeply tired world of ours that God sends Jesus to speak the voice of love. Jesus says, ‘Follow me. Don’t keep running around. Follow me. Don’t just sit there. Follow me.’ The voice of love is the voice that can completely reshape our life from a wandering or just sitting-there lifeContinue reading “Follow Me”
Compassionate God
I looked up the definition of “compassion.” Here’s what it said in Merrian-Websters: “sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it.” I don’t know about you, but when I apply that to God, it’s pretty special. Basically, He is aware of my distress and desires to alleviate it. You can’t getContinue reading “Compassionate God”
Is There Room at the Inn?
Is There Room at the Inn? For several weeks I’ve busily prepared for the holidays. The house is decked out in Christmas finery: the tree is lit, garlands cover the stairway and windows, and angels and nativities adorn the tabletops. Holiday meals are cooked, and the pantry is stocked. Treats wait for children and grandchildrenContinue reading “Is There Room at the Inn?”
Growing Our Faith Together 